The Inspiring Journey of the Ah-Hing Family from Tonga

In the world of sports, there are few families who have made as significant an impact as the Ah-Hings from Tonga. With three generations involved in basketball, this family has demonstrated the power of dedication, hard work, and teamwork. From refereeing to coaching, their contributions to the sport have been driven by a deep love for their country and a desire to give back to the community.

The Family’s Love for Basketball

For the Ah-Hings, basketball is more than just a sport; it’s a way to bond and represent their Tongan roots on a global platform. Emma, one of the referees in the family, explains, “Basketball has given us so much, and we want to give back to the community and to our country.”

A Legacy of Service

At the heart of the Ah-Hing family’s basketball journey is the value of service. Natasha emphasizes, “It’s never been about us; it’s always about doing what’s best for others, especially for our country.” This sentiment is echoed by Logan, who states, “If a mum of 12 like myself can get the call up to be an assistant coach, then other mums can too.”

Inspiring the Next Generation

For Tamilo, being the player in the family amidst two referees and a coach has offered him a unique perspective. He often benefits from the advice his sisters and mother give him, “It’s a huge honor to play for my country and my family, and grateful for the support they have given me.” Tamilo sees his role in the U15 team as setting a pathway for younger generations of Tongan athletes, showing them that anything is possible if they put in the work.

A Pathway to Elite Competition

The Ah-Hing family’s journey is not just about their accomplishments; it’s about creating opportunities and paving the way for future players, coaches, and referees from Tonga. Logan’s aspirations for the future are focused on inspiring the next generation, stating, “We want others to see if we can do it, they can do it too.”

A Partnership for Success

The Ah-Hing family is proud supporters of PacificAus Sports, a program aimed at elevating Pacific women’s basketball pathways to elite competition through athlete immersion programs and high-performance events, and workshops. This partnership with FIBA in Oceania ensures that female athletes have access to top-tier training and competitive opportunities.

In conclusion, the Ah-Hing family from Tonga is an inspiration to anyone who has ever been passionate about sports. Their dedication, hard work, and teamwork have made a significant impact on the sport, and their legacy will continue to inspire future generations of athletes, coaches, and referees. By fostering development and leadership, programs like PacificAus Sports are dedicated to empowering women and girls in basketball across the Pacific region.