Australian Government Supports Lakapi Samoa Strengthen Manusina 7s Program

Apia, Samoa – 19 February 2025 – Lakapi Samoa has forged partnership with Rugby Australia through the Australian Government’s PacificAus Sports initiative to enhance the Manusina 7s program.

Under this partnership, the Australian Government will provide Lakapi Samoa with AUD$800,000.00 (approx. WST$1,430,000) over four years to support talent identification and development, marking a significant step towards Samoa’s quest for qualification in the HSBC SVNS series.

In addition to supporting the overall development of rugby in Samoa, this partnership will be instrumental in inspiring the next generation of Samoan rugby talent.

Through expanded school outreach programs and increased development opportunities, Lakapi Samoa aims to foster emerging talent at all levels of the game. This initiative will not only enhance participation rates but also promote skill development and competitive match opportunities.

Lakapi Samoa’s Chief Executive Officer, Seumanu Douglas Ngau Chun hailed the support as timely.

“This partnership comes at a crucial time as we revamp our Sevens program, strengthening our women’s high-performance pathway and providing our athletes with the resources and opportunities needed to compete at the highest level.”

The support will be instrumental in driving Manusina 7s bid to qualify and debut in the HSBC World Sevens Series, while also aiding our Manu Samoa 7s in their journey to return to the series.

“This significant investment reflects the strong and enduring relationship between the Government of Samoa and the Australian Government, highlighting our shared commitment to advancing sports development and creating opportunities for Pacific athletes on the world stage,” Seumanu said.

The Australian High Commissioner to Samoa, His Excellency Will Robinson the support reflects Australia’s commitment to grow rugby union in Samoa and the region.

“Samoa and Australia share a love of sport that transcends borders and brings people together. This support for Lakapi Samoa’s Manusina Sevens team reflects Australia’s commitment to creating opportunities for athletes across our shared Blue Pacific to learn, grow, and compete together at the elite level.”

The Chief Executive Officer of Rugby Australia, Phil Waugh said Rugby Australia is thrilled to strengthen our partnership with Lakapi Samoa as we work together to elevate rugby throughout the Pacific.

“We extend our heartfelt thanks to the Australian Government for its ongoing support of Pacific rugby through the PacificAus Sports program. Today’s funding announcement will significantly enhance Lakapi Samoa’s efforts to develop its women’s rugby program.

“Together, we are building a bright future for women’s rugby in our region. With Australia hosting the Rugby World Cups in 2027 and 2029 on the horizon, we proudly consider these events as home World Cups for our Pacific rugby family. It’s crucial that we unite in support of Pacific teams, empowering them to achieve their fullest potential,” said Waugh.