Team Samoa welcomed home by proud supporters

By Talaia Mika

APIA, SAMOA – 28 JUNE 2022: Sports officials, families and friends gathered at the Faleolo international airport this afternoon to welcome Team Samoa from the Pacific Mini Games in Northern Marianas with 21 Medals – 8 Gold, 5 Silver and 8 Bronze.

Families and friends crowded the Arrivals Area of the airport with Welcome banners and flags to show their support.

President of the Samoa Weightlifting Federation, Tuaopepe Jerry Wallwork who was among the waiting crowd congratulated the team on behalf of everyone present.

“You have fought with your best and we couldn’t be any prouder, congratulations on your achievements everyone,” he said.

Tuaopepe was one of the proudest as he acknowledged the Weightlifting Team that continues to amaze the nation with their record-breaking performances in the sports competition this year.

One of the youngest weightlifters, Avatu Opeloge who won three Bronze medals in the 76kg Women’s category in the snatch, clean and jerk, and the overall total said she was humbled and surprised with her achievements as this is her first international competition.

“I’ve given up school to pursue this career and I’m glad that this is my first time and I was able to get a medal,” she said.

She also acknowledged the support of her families and friends and the whole country. “We felt your presence by heart and we don’t take it for granted,” said the budding weightlifter.

Samoa was represented in only five sports and some of the team members who are based overseas have returned to their bases abroad having represented Samoa in the mini games.

The team landed on Fiji Airways at 4pm today.