The Philippine Rugby Football Union (PRFU) has named the official lineup of the Philippine Volcanoes men’s and women’s teams, set to compete in the Asia Rugby Emirates Sevens Trophy on October 4-5, 2024, at Dasharath Stadium, Nepal.
After an intensive 10-day training camp in New Clark City, Tarlac, Philippines, both teams are poised to showcase the very best of Philippine rugby talent, with Filipino-Australian players taking centre stage in both squads.
Spotlight on New Talent: Tristan Quirante Leffers
Among the standout new players is Tristan Quirante Leffers, a promising addition to the squad. Leffers, who has Australian roots, brings a youthful vigor and fresh talent to the Volcanoes. This marks his debut in the national team, and all eyes will be on how he adapts to the international stage, representing the Philippines with pride.
Leffers’s inclusion reflects the increasing integration of Filipino-Australian athletes into the team’s core, highlighting the deep ties between these two countries in the sport of rugby.
Key Filipino-Australian Players to Watch
Several other players on the team hail from Australia, bringing with them the competitive edge and international experience they’ve honed in local Australian rugby leagues.
Kai Ledesma Stroem, one of the co-captains, is an influential figure within the team. Born in Australia to a Filipino mother, Kai’s journey through rugby began in Australia, where he played for local clubs before joining the Philippine national team. His tactical prowess and agility on the field make him a pivotal player for the Volcanoes. His leadership not only strengthens the team but also serves as an inspiration for many Filipino-Australians, bridging their cultural heritage with their sporting aspirations.
Harrison Carceller Blake, the other co-captain, shares a similar Filipino-Australian background. Raised in Australia, Blake developed his rugby skills through extensive participation in Australian leagues. His dynamic style of play and unwavering commitment have made him a vital leader for the Volcanoes. Blake’s dual heritage has allowed him to be a representative for both Australia and the Philippines, making him a beloved figure among fans from both nations.
Ned Plarizan Stephenson, another key player, rounds out the trio of Filipino-Australian talents. Stephenson, who has also played in Australian leagues, adds depth and versatility to the Volcanoes’ lineup. His experience, combined with his Filipino roots, provides a strong connection to the team’s mission of representing the Philippines with pride.
Spotlight on the Women’s Team: Continuing the Winning Legacy
The women’s team, captained by Rassiel Sales and vice-captained by Pearl Opolentisima Kellie, is just as formidable. Notably, Naomi Kate Palis Stroem, sister to Kai Stroem, adds to the Filipino-Australian presence in the women’s squad. The women’s team is determined to replicate their gold medal success from the 2019 Asia Rugby Sevens Trophy and continue their winning legacy on the international stage.
Full Men’s and Women’s Team Line-Up
Men’s Philippine Team
- Co-Captain: Kai Ledesma Stroem
- Co-Captain: Harrison Carceller Blake
- Dayton Iobu
- Donald Canon Coleman
- George Rosal Nield
- Jake Soriano
- Jonel Madrona
- Michael Gomez Blatties
- Ned Plarizan Stephenson
- Rafael Julian Phillips
- Reed Santos
- Tristan Quirante Leffers
- Head Coach: Darryl Suasua
- Team Manager: Lalaine Bacus
- Physiotherapist: Declan Drake
Women’s Philippine Team
- Captain: Rassiel Sales
- Vice-Captain: Pearl Opolentisima Kellie
- Alana Lee Donaire Grace
- Janin Lara Puig
- Naomi Kate Palis Stroem
- Kayleigh Corpuz Foster
- Lauryn Nazareno
- Loramhel Mateo
- Patricia Mandon Mangahas
- Sylvia Tudoc
- Takiah-Lani Joy Buchanan
- Vanessa Hachiles Cifuentes
- Head Coach: Samantha Scott
- Team Manager: Mark Villamora
- Physiotherapist: Harry Fardell
Philippine Rugby: A Tradition of Excellence
The Philippine Rugby Football Union, established in 1998, governs the sport in the Philippines and oversees the development of rugby from grassroots to elite levels. The men’s team won gold in the 2017 Asia Rugby Sevens Trophy, while the women’s team captured the title in 2019. Filipino-Australian athletes have played a significant role in the team’s international success, with many players bringing their experience from Australian rugby leagues to the national team.
The Journey of the Philippine Volcanoes
The Volcanoes’ player selection is based on a combination of factors, including Filipino heritage and outstanding performance in both local and international rugby leagues. Filipino athletes raised in other countries, particularly Australia, are given the opportunity to represent the Philippines, bringing with them diverse experiences that strengthen the team’s competitive edge.
This latest journey for the Volcanoes exemplifies the growing influence of Filipino-Australians in Philippine rugby, with players like Kai Stroem, Harrison Blake, Ned Stephenson, and newcomer Tristan Leffers leading the way. Their participation reinforces the strong cultural connections between Australia and the Philippines, reflecting how sports can serve as a bridge between nations.
Watch the Games Live
The Asia Rugby Emirates Sevens Trophy will take place on October 4-5, 2024, at Dasharath Stadium in Nepal. Fans can watch the matches live via Asia Rugby’s Facebook page and YouTube channel, cheering on the Filipino-Australian talents and the entire Philippine Volcanoes team as they battle for international glory.
For more updates, visit the Philippine Rugby Football Union.
