A Long-Awaited Dream for Valentine Holmes
Valentine Holmes has long dreamed of wearing the colours of the Cook Islands, a goal that has taken much longer to achieve than expected. His aspirations have been hindered by costly injuries over the past two seasons, which prevented him from representing his heritage at key moments. A season-ending shoulder injury in 2025 kept him from making his international debut for a World Cup qualifier against South Africa, but he is now hopeful of getting his chance in the upcoming World Cup.
Holmes has also taken on a coaching role with the Cook Islands Aitu, showcasing his deep passion for the team. “Yeah, it is pretty exciting,” Holmes said to the media. “It’s definitely something that I’ve been thinking about (in) the last couple of years. But unfortunately, the two years I’ve been injured, at the end of 24, broke my leg, and then last year with my shoulder. So fingers crossed I get there at the end of the year.”
His decision to represent the Cook Islands has drawn comparisons to when Jason Taumalolo and Andrew Fifita pledged their allegiance to Tonga ahead of the 2017 RLWC. This move created a ripple effect, positioning Tonga and Samoa as top rugby league nations alongside Australia and New Zealand.
The 30-year-old premiership winner is now focused on leading his country toward the Pacific heavyweights. “It’s something I’ve spoken to my family, my mum about, especially, and all her family,” Holmes added. “She’s one of 12. So she has a lot of brothers and sisters that just want to see me in that jersey. So yeah, fingers crossed, I get there. I’ve seen the draw already, and I think we’re in the draw with Australia, New Zealand, and Fiji. So what better teams to play against?”
Building a Stronger Team
In March, Sharks centre KL Iro revealed that he and Holmes are working together to recruit other NRL stars to commit to the Cook Islands and grow its rugby league presence. “I’ve been always messaging boys that can come play, and they’ll probably think I’m a bit of a pest, but I’ve been just contacting them and just saying, ‘actually, it’s the year,’ like, ‘hey, you guys want to come back’,” Iro said.
“I was last year trying to get some boys over, and it’s good we got Valentine Holmes, he’s pledged his allegiance as well. So hopefully he can bring a couple more boys. He lives in Cronulla, too, so we’ll catch up and start recruiting and messaging boys and pestering them. So, yeah, I’m really excited, and hopefully we can get a strong team coming into some big games.”
Holmes, who has played 20 Tests for Australia and scored 21 tries in the green and gold, has always stepped up when representing his country. His elite level of experience and leadership will be crucial as the Cook Islands team transitions into becoming a prominent force in the rugby league calendar.
Challenges at Club Level
Despite his success on the international stage, Holmes has faced challenges at club level. The Red V has started the season with a 0-9 record. However, Holmes’ former Cowboys teammate, Scott Drinkwater, will be joining him in Wollongong next year as the Dragons look to improve their attack after a poor start to the season.
“Yeah, it’s awesome. I don’t know if he had any other offers anywhere else, so it’s probably the only place he is coming to,” Holmes joked. “But no, it’s definitely good to get someone of his calibre here. It’s good to have around the team and we’re going like this as well. He’s obviously full of energy, and he’s obviously very skilful as well at the back.”
Leadership and Future Prospects
It is now up to experienced leaders such as Holmes, Clint Gutherson, and Damien Cook to rally their side and instill confidence back into the playing group for the remainder of the year. The Dragons face an even tougher challenge with a clash against the red-hot Penrith Panthers on Sunday.
As Holmes continues to balance his club commitments with his new role in the Cook Islands team, his journey highlights the dedication and passion required to represent one’s heritage on the global stage. With the support of fellow players and the backing of his family, Holmes remains determined to make his mark and help elevate the Cook Islands’ presence in rugby league.
