Samoa men’s team heads to Queensland State cup

The Samoa Touch Men’s Team is set to create history as the first team from Samoa Touch to participate in the prestigious Queensland Touch State Cup, taking place in Coomera, Gold Coast, Australia, from November 29 to December 1, 2024. This milestone marks an exciting chapter in Samoa’s touch rugby journey and serves as a key stepping stone toward preparation for future regional and international tournaments, including the 2028 Touch World Cup in New Zealand.

Fresh off an unprecedented triple gold medal triumph at the 2023 Pacific Games in the Solomon Islands, the team is poised to continue showcasing their talent on the international stage. Despite financial challenges that prevented the Men’s Team from participating in the Touch World Cup in England earlier this year, Samoa Touch Rugby Incorporated (STRI) has remained steadfast in its mission to develop touch rugby in Samoa and expand opportunities for its athletes.

This event marks a new chapter for Samoa, as the youngest-ever Men’s team will represent the nation in the highly competitive Men’s Premier Division. With an average age of just 25 and the youngest players at 15 years old, the team embodies the future of Samoan touch rugby. Their participation offers immense opportunities for growth and development, setting a benchmark for nurturing young talent and inspiring future generations.

STRI President Matiu Tuileva expressed his pride in the team’s achievements and future potential:

“This historic debut reflects the hard work and dedication of everyone involved in Samoa Touch Rugby. Our players are ambassadors for Samoa, and their participation highlights the progress we are making as a nation in this sport. We are committed to building on this momentum and ensuring that Samoa becomes a regular and formidable presence in international competitions like the Queensland State Cup.”

The touring delegation consists of 12 Samoa-based players, four Australia-based players, and a management team of four, making a total of 20. STRI acknowledges the unwavering support from sponsors, families, and the wider Samoan community, whose contributions have turned this dream into reality.

“This is a groundbreaking moment for Samoa Touch Rugby,” said Head Coach Kalolo Lepou.

“Our participation in the Queensland State Cup not only prepares us for the challenges of the international stage but also represents the resilience, ambition, and pride of our athletes. We aim to inspire the next generation and cement Samoa’s position as a rising force in touch rugby.”

As an international invitational team, Samoa will not accrue points at the State Cup, but the experience gained will be invaluable. The team acknowledges the generous support from sponsors, families, and the community. Together, they have made this dream a reality, setting the stage for a brighter future for touch rugby in Samoa.

This historic journey symbolizes STRI’s commitment to inclusive and sustainable growth, ensuring touch rugby continues to thrive in Samoa and on the global stage.

Tuala Mathew Vaea (CEO-SASNOC) highlighted the importance of focusing on grassroots development to ensure continuous growth, reflecting on his journey as a professional athlete and those of other former and current professional athletes, which began with touch rugby in New Zealand and Australia. He further emphasized Samoa Touch’s three gold medals at the SOL23 Pacific Games 2023 as the epitome of success for development programs focusing on harnessing local talent.

Tuala also thanked the partners, families, and friends who have supported Samoa Touch’s efforts and congratulated the athletes making their debut for Samoa in this tournament.

*International Debut

Head Coach: Kalolo Lepou II
Technical Advisor: Taupau Alex Vaauliafa III Mikaele
Team Manager: Liomaiava Samuel Christian Ieremia
Assistant Team Manager: Galumalemana Jason Jerome Hini Hansell