The Cook Islands Football Association (CIFA) is pleased to announce the appointment of Rhys Ruka as the new Cook Islands National Men’s Head Coach, agreeing to a long-term contract through to 2028.
Ruka takes on the role with a clear long-term vision for the Men’s National Team, with the goal of competing strongly in the OFC Nations Cup Qualifiers and FIFA World Cup Qualifiers through 2027 and 2028.
He brings a wealth of experience both internationally and at club level. Ruka has previously led Manurewa AFC and Fencibles United from the lower end of New Zealand’s Northern Region Second Division through to promotion to the National League, demonstrating his ability to build competitive teams and achieve long-term results.
Ruka also brings experience on the international stage as the Aotearoa Māori Men’s Head Coach, adding another valuable dimension to his coaching background.
His connection with the Cook Islands is already well established. Ruka previously represented Tupapa-Maraerenga FC as a player and later served as the Cook Islands National Women’s Head Coach, leading the team during the 2025 Oceania FIFA Women’s World Cup Qualifiers.
He returned to lead the Women’s National Team in 2026 at the FIFA Series in Auckland, where the Cook Islands recorded two victories against the Afghan Women’s United Team.
Speaking on his appointment, Ruka said the opportunity to lead the Men’s National Team was a deeply personal one.
“First and foremost I love the Cook Islands people, culture and land. My experience of Rarotonga through playing for Tupapa and coaching the Women’s National team has shaped me as a person massively, so to lead the Men’s team is a very special privilege that I will put all of my energy towards growing. I am confident we will compete with the best teams in the region before I depart.”
With a long-term contract now in place, Ruka and CIFA will work towards developing a strong and competitive Men’s National Team, creating a clear pathway for players and building towards the major international challenges ahead.
CIFA congratulates Rhys Ruka on his appointment and looks forward to supporting him as he begins this new chapter with the Cook Islands Men’s National Team.
CIFA Media
