Samoa Weightlifting to send elite squad to Commonwealth Games in Glasgow

By Jeannie Penehuro/

Apia, SAMOA – 06 April 2026: The Samoa Weightlifting Federation has selected an elite team of lifters to represent Samoa at the Commonwealth Games in Glasgow from 23 July to 2 August 2026.

The elite team qualified after their successful performance at the IBFCUniversal Weightlifting Championship 2026 hosted in Samoa last week.

The team 
The team includes Gold medallist Seine Stowers, Iuniara Sapaia, John Tafi, Jack Opeloge, Emmanuel Ulimasao and Sagele Mao.

Also qualified are Silver medallist Sefulu Seuao,  Falevaa Tafi, Faitasia Seuao and Anoni Faumi who won a bronze medal.

Some of the team including Stowers, Opeloge, Iuniara and John Tafi set outstanding records at the Universal Championship.

The team was announced at a press conference fronted by the President of the Samoa Association of Sports & National Olympic Committee (SASNOC) who is also the President of the Samoa Weightlifting federation, Tuaopepe Jerry Wallwork.

Team Samoa that won 26 gold, 18 silver and 6 bronze in last weeks IBFC Universal Cup.

Samoa secure 50 medals and established individual achievements
Samoa put on an impressive performance winning a total of 50 medals – with 26 Gold, 18 Silver and 6 Bronze.

Seine Stowers performance earned her the title of Best Female Lifter, while Emmanuel Ulimasao was named Junior Male Lifter.

John Tafi was ranked the 2nd Best Male Lifter.

Both the Female and Male Teams received awards for Best Overall Teams.

Tuaopepe expressed humility and gratitude for the team’s achievements.

“I did not expect us to win trophies; I only advised the team to give their best and God has answered our prayers,” he said.

SASNOC Chief Executive Officer Tuala Mathew Vaea commended the Team Samoa as well as support groups such as the Saoluafata Youth Opening performance and Siva Afi Fire Dance Group that left a positive impact on spectators and showcased local talent.

Tuaopepe announced that the final tally results for the Universal, Oceania, and Commonwealth competitions will be released soon, and media updates will follow.

“Samoa’s success at the Universal Cup elevates the nation’s status in weightlifting and signals a bright future for sports development across the country,” said Tuaopepe.

As Samoa celebrate this milestone, athletes and supporters eagerly look forward to the more international sporting challenges and opportunities.