Samoa National Open Mens Touch Team to make historic debut

Apia, Samoa – 26 November 2024 – The Samoa Touch Men’s Team is set to create history as the first Samoa Touch team to compete 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 participation 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.

With an average age of just 25 and the youngest player 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.

Teams final hit out with the Barbarians at NUS before departing for Australia

STRI President Matiu Tuileva also 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 team 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 ground breaking 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.”

SAMOA MENS NATIONAL TOUCH TEAM

1. Ralphen Fenika Viane – Sapapalii, Poutasi Falealili – Mana Brothers
   2. Danny Semo Sititi Karegua – Alafua – Marist
   3. Enetosi Foaese – Vailoa – Stay Aloof
   4. George Aloiafi Komiti – Toamua, Gautavai – Konnexions
   5. Dominic Papu Ioasa Afamasaga – Faga, Fasitoo, Samusu & Palisi – Meitaki
   6. Eteuati (Uati) Viliamu O’Brien – Elise Fou – Brothers Touch
   7. Michael (Ras) James Bernard Rasmussen – Faleapuna – Brothers Touch
   8. Leonidas Kaleb Iamanatu Ieremia* – Lalomanu, Lalovaea, Salelologa – Meitaki
   9. Adrian Herbert Roma* – Alafua – SCOPA
   10. Tapelu Tunufai – Magiagi, Patamea – Savaii, and Vavau – Meitaki
   11. Johnny Perez – Sataua, Leauvaa – Stay Aloof
   12. Uelese Eteuati – Neiafu, Vailoa Faleata – Konnexions
   13. Poiasenetenari Sailala Samuelu Jr Musubire* – Vaitele Tai – Konnexions
   14. Vitaliano Lui* – Lotopa Marist
   15. Jesse Thomas Michael Ephraim Leituvae Letogo – Kickback
   16. Ezrah Eddishaw Wright* – Saoluafata, Falelatai, Leauvaa – Melbourne Phoenix
   *International Debut

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