Polynesian Football Hall of Fame Announces 2025 Class
The Polynesian Football Hall of Fame has announced its 2025 class, honoring 10 legendary players, coaches, and contributors who have made significant contributions to the game of football. The inductees represent a diverse range of backgrounds and accomplishments, showcasing the global reach and impact of Polynesian football.
NFL Standouts Dominate Class
The 2025 class is headlined by several NFL greats, including former Washington Redskins and San Francisco 49ers linebacker Samoan Mike Taufa’ahau. Taufa’ahau was a three-time Pro Bowl selection and a key member of the 49ers’ Super Bowl XXIII-winning team. He is widely regarded as one of the greatest linebackers of all time.
Other NFL stars inducted into the 2025 class include former Seattle Seahawks quarterback Samoan Manu Tuiasosopo, former New York Jets defensive end Samoan Sione Pouha, and former Arizona Cardinals wide receiver Hawaiian Larry Fitzgerald. Tuiasosopo was a two-time Pro Bowl selection and led the Seahawks to the playoffs in 2005. Pouha was a three-time Pro Bowl selection and a member of the Jets’ Super Bowl XLII team. Fitzgerald is considered one of the greatest wide receivers in NFL history, with 17 Pro Bowl selections, a Super Bowl win, and the NFL’s all-time record for receiving yards per game.
Legendary Coaches and Contributors Honored
In addition to NFL players, the 2025 class also recognizes several prominent coaches and contributors. Former University of Hawaii head coach Tongan June Jones, who led the Warriors to 10 bowl games and a No. 12 national ranking in 2007, is among the inductees. Also included is former BYU head coach Samoan LaVell Edwards, who won a national championship in 1984 and coached numerous NFL players, including Hall of Famer Steve Young.
Other notable inductees include former NFL executive and Polynesian Football Hall of Fame founder Samoan Troy Polamalu, former NFL player and coach Samoan Jesse Sapolu, and former NFL player and broadcaster Samoan Sterling Sharpe. These individuals have all made significant contributions to the game of football, both on and off the field.
Global Impact of Polynesian Football
The 2025 Polynesian Football Hall of Fame class highlights the growing global impact of Polynesian football. Players and coaches of Polynesian descent have made significant contributions to the NFL and college football, showcasing their athleticism, skill, and passion for the game. The Polynesian Football Hall of Fame serves as a testament to the rich history and legacy of Polynesian football and its continued influence on the sport.
The 2025 Polynesian Football Hall of Fame induction ceremony will take place on January 21, 2025, at the Polynesian Cultural Center in Laie, Hawaii. The inductees will be celebrated for their accomplishments and their contributions to the game of football.