Thelandofpapua.com – Agustina Bukaleng has made history as the first female rugby player from the Amungme tribe to represent Indonesia on the national stage. Her journey from a small town in Mimika to competing in the Asia Rugby Sevens Trophy is a testament to her perseverance and passion for the sport.

Bukaleng’s love for rugby began at a young age. While her peers gravitated towards basketball, she was drawn to rugby because of her agility and strength. “My friends chose basketball, but I focused on rugby. Strength in tackling and speed in running are key in this game,” said Bukaleng on Thursday (February 13, 2025).

Growing up, she attended Sekolah Asrama Taruna Papua in Timika, a school equipped with extensive sports facilities, enabling her to train rigorously. Her dedication to the sport earned her a scholarship from the Amungme and Kamoro Community Empowerment Foundation (YPMAK), allowing her to continue her education at SMA Negeri 3 in Jayapura.

Rising Through the Ranks

Bukaleng’s exceptional talent quickly propelled her into the spotlight. She represented Papua in the 2024 National Sports Week (PON), leading her team to a silver medal. Her stellar performance did not go unnoticed, earning her a spot on the Indonesian Women’s Rugby National Team. She recently competed in the Asia Rugby Sevens Trophy in Kathmandu, Nepal, in October 2024.

“I am very happy and proud to be the first Amungme girl to join the national rugby team,” said the high school senior, reflecting on her groundbreaking achievement.

A Legacy Rooted in History

Rugby was first introduced in Timika by expatriates from Australia and the United States working at PT Freeport Indonesia. The first local rugby club, Koteka Rugby, was established in the 1980s, with George Deda playing a pivotal role as one of its founders. Deda, who also coached Bukaleng and her teammates during the 2024 PON preparations, has been a significant influence in her career.

“I was part of the Papua Women’s Rugby Team at the Rugby Sevens Rockyes Championship in Papua New Guinea in December 2023, playing as a wing,” Bukaleng shared. Despite her demanding schedule as a professional athlete, she remains dedicated to her education and is preparing for her final exams.

Ambitions Beyond the Field

Bukaleng’s aspirations go beyond her achievements on the rugby field. She plans to pursue a degree in Physical Education and Sports at the State University of Jakarta, with the dream of becoming a sports teacher and promoting rugby across Papua and Indonesia.

“I want to be a physical education teacher and make rugby more popular in Papua and Indonesia,” she expressed.

Her accomplishments have garnered immense pride from her community. Feri Magai Uamang, Deputy Director of YPMAK, praised her dedication and wished her success in fulfilling her dreams. “In the future, YPMAK will collaborate more with state universities in Indonesia,” Uamang stated.

Paving the Way for Future Generations

Agustina Bukaleng’s journey is not just about personal triumph but also about breaking cultural and social barriers. As the first Amungme woman to reach this level in rugby, she is paving the way for future generations to pursue their passions, regardless of societal expectations.

Her story resonates as an inspiring example of resilience, ambition, and cultural pride. As she continues to excel in her sport and pursue her dreams, Agustina Bukaleng is not only making history but also changing perceptions and inspiring young women across Papua and Indonesia.