New leadership promises new era for Rugby League Samoa

Apia, Samoa – 17 August 2023: Rugby League Samoa (RLS) is undergoing significant changes, heralding a new era under the leadership of a freshly appointed President and Executive Board. The shift comes after the annual general meeting held on 5 July 2023.

The Executive Committee for Rugby League Samoa (RLS) elected at the AGM to lead RLS through to the next Rugby League World Cup in 2025 is as follows:

President:                   Fiu Faaolatane Ponifasio Vasa
Vice President:          Toilolo Klaus Stunzner
Secretary:                   Laulu Lafao Leauanae Tuugatiti Leo Leauanae
Treasurer:                   Tavui Mike Lemisio

The new executive however has big shoes to fill following the phenomenal success of Toa Samoa in last years’ World Cup and the team now ranked third in the world.

Rugby League Samoa President for the past 12 years, Tagaloa Fa’afouina Sua did not seek re-election stating that it was the right time for him to step down.

Tagaloa steps down with a proud record of achievements including last year’s Rugby League World Cup when Samoa won the hearts of sports fans around the world.

Tuimatafele Fritz Tuavi’i who was Secretary General for Rugby League Samoa for more than 15 years, leaves to take up an appointment as Samoa’s Chef de Mission for the Olympics 2024.

Fiaai Peter Paul who has served as Vice President of RLS for many years did not seek re-election.

Members at the AGM acknowledged the three past Executive members and their immense contribution to the development, growth and success of Rugby League Samoa.

“They leave the organisation and the game in a strong position from which to build and grow in the years ahead,” said new President Fiu Faaolatane Ponifasio Vasa.

Tagaloa Faafouina Su’a steps down after 12 years leading Rugby League Samoa and building it to its current success. He is photographed here with one of the Toa Samoa World Cup 2022 stars, Joseph Suaalii after he was bestowed the warriors matai title Anavaotaua.

“While we are excited to welcome an injection of new energy and expertise into the governance of Rugby League Samoa, we will work closely with the former executives to ensure a smooth transition. Their advice and mentorship will be a key part of our ability to continue their great work.

“As a new executive Board, we are humbled to be asked to steer Rugby League Samoa into this next chapter of a modern era for our sport.

“We have already seen how one team from a small Pasifika nation can inspire people all over the world. We have always loved and treasured our own national teams on the world stage; we are looking forward to leading the organisation into a more innovative and progressive future.”

The Executive Board has set clear objectives for the next six years. These objectives include the development of a strategic plan, with a focus on local development, starting from grassroots initiatives such as primary and secondary schools.

“RLS is firmly committed to nurturing local talent and creating pathways, beginning with grassroots development in schools through to the national resident teams for both men and women,” said Fiu.

Typical scenes of Toa Samoa supporters around the world.

As an integral part of the strategic plan, RLS is cementing its pre-World Cup commercial arrangement with Pacificast Agency with a formal arrangement that sees it taking on new revenue and brand generation, commercial responsibility and stabilising financial management.

“We are pleased to reaffirm the alliance agreement with Pacificast, entrusted with overseeing all commercial agreements on behalf of Rugby League Samoa (RLS)” expressed Fiu. “This strategic partnership will serve as a catalyst for building stronger financial outcomes and securing a prosperous future for rugby league in Samoa.”

With the recent departure of former Toa Samoa head coach Mau A Pule Matt Parish, the focus of Rugby League Samoa (RLS) and Pacificast is prioritising the recruitment of a new head coach and coaching team. RLS will be advertising Expressions of Interest (EOI) for all roles this week in preparation for upcoming international fixtures to be announced.