David Lakisa been appointed the Tom Brock Scholar for 2013

‘The History of the Pacific Diaspora in Australian Rugby League’

project outline

The proposed research is aimed at mapping the history and involvement of Pacifica Diaspora in Australian Rugby League. This will be achieved by examining key acculturation factors and the lived experiences of 15 retired Pacifica athletes who have participated in Australian Rugby League competitions from 1960 to the present. The research aims to critically analyse their motivation for participation and influencing socio-cultural factors both as individual athletes and as members of the wider Australia-Pacifica community. Cultural values, religion, family, education, sport and recreation will be examined within a multi-disciplinary framework which will draw on areas such as sociology, Pacifica cultural studies, community development and sports management.

DAVID LAKISA

David Lakisa is enrolled in a PhD at the University of Technology, Sydney, researching the above topic. He was the Pacific Islander Coaching and Development Officer for the New South Wales Rugby League from March 2007 to January 2011. He has been the Seminaries and Institutes of Religion Coordinator for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints at Carlingford since January 2011.