From one team to a movement – the rise of the Valkyries

The Club’s Valkyries programme began in 2024 with a clear and intentional vision – to create a space where young girls could show up as themselves. Founded by Tracey Lupeiki and James Te Pou, the initiative was grounded in Pasifika and Māori values with a strong focus on connection, culture and belonging.

From the outset, this was never just about rugby league. It was about creating an environment where every girl felt seen, supported and confident in who she was. Culture wasn’t an add-on – it provided the foundation.

Pictured: Tracey Lupeiki and James Te Pou

That intention quickly translated into growth. From one team in 2024, Valkyries expanded to three teams in 2025. Now in 2026, the programme includes eight teams, 14 coaches and 152 girls, the majority proudly identifying as Pasifika and Māori.

“You can feel the difference as soon as you step into that environment,” explains Jemma Palmer, Youth Advisor at Tuia Waitākere (formerly Sport Waitākere). “It’s not just about playing sport – it’s about identity, belonging and creating a space where our young wāhine feel strong in who they are. That’s what keeps them coming back, and that’s what draws in their sisters, cousins and friends.”

In 2025, Tuia Waitākere began building a relationship with the Valkyries – one grounded in trust, respect, and a shared commitment to supporting young Pasifika and Māori girls. Since then, the partnership has focused on walking alongside the club, providing support behind the scenes while ensuring that the leadership and vision of Tracey and James remain at the forefront.

This approach has been deliberate. Rather than leading the work, Tuia Waitākere has focused on strengthening what already exists – offering guidance, facilitating development opportunities and helping respond to the evolving needs of the programme, informed by ongoing kōrero with whānau and the wider community.

As Valkyries has grown, so too has the need for consistency across teams. With new coaches coming on board, clear expectations, shared values and strong connection points have been essential to maintaining the integrity of the environment. Tuia Waitākere has supported this through a series of targeted workshops, helping embed the founding Pasifika and Māori values across all teams in practical, meaningful ways.  These workshops have covered topics ranging from club insights to coach development, team bonding and club values.

“These spaces don’t just happen by accident,” adds Jemma. “They take care, intention and a deep understanding of the community. What Tracey and James have built is something really special and our role is to support that, protect it, and help it grow in a way that stays true to its roots.”

The impact is being felt well beyond the field. Families trust the environment because it reflects who they are. Girls are not only participating, but leading, connecting, and thriving.

"It’s not even about the rugby for my girl, it is about the girls, League is just the bonus," explains one parent.  “I have two girls that are playing, it’s a whānau feel,” adds another.

For the players, the experience is unlike anything else, both on and off the field.  “The sisterhood is real.  It’s about all of us being included,” says one player.  "You can feel the sacrifice that our coaches give us,” adds another.

Jemma says that this is about much more than sport.  “It’s about strengthening participation, supporting long-term wellbeing, and addressing inequities that Pasifika and Māori communities continue to face.”

The Valkyries story is a powerful reminder of what’s possible when community leads, culture is centred, and growth is guided with care. 

“Backing communities already doing the hard work means recognising that real change starts from within. Tuia Waitākere’s role is to stand alongside – uplifting and supporting that leadership so it can continue to flourish,” concludes Jemma.