Samoa Netball receive $150,000 to prepare for 2027 World Cup

By Jeannie Penehuro/

Apia, SAMOA – 20 October 2026: The Government of Samoa has committed $150,000 to assist the Samoa Netball preparations for the Netball World Cup in Australia 2027 and the development of the sport locally.

Prime Minister Laaulialemalietoa Leuatea Polataivao Schmidt announced the Governments support at the official opening of the Samoa Netball Association Cup 2026 on Monday, highlighting the Government’s commitment to strengthening sports and creating opportunities for young people.

$100,000 has been allocated to help Samoa Netball prepare for the Netball World Cup and $50,000 to support the tournament currently running from 19 to 23 October.

The competition brings together local and overseas-based Samoan teams, providing a platform for players to showcase their talent, strengthen connections and compete at a high level.

Participating teams include Samoa Pathway team, Singapore Netball, Queensland Samoa, Auckland Samoa 1, Auckland Samoa 2 and Kotahitanga Netball Melbourne.

The Prime Minister emphasized the “important role sport plays in building confidence, developing talent and bringing communities together.”

Reverend Salesulu, Prime Minister Laaulialemalietoa, Deputy Prime Minister Mulipola Anarosa Ale Molioo and Cabinet Ministers at Monday’s opening ceremony.

He said netball gives young people the opportunity to discover their abilities, develop self-confidence and understand the importance of teamwork and working towards a shared goal.

He confirmed that continued investment in sport is essential in ensuring young athletes had the support and opportunities needed to reach their full potential.

“Our sporting future depends on the opportunities we create today,” he said.

He stressed the need to identify emerging talent, support coaches and officials, strengthen sporting organisations and establish clear pathways for athletes to progress from community-level competition to national and international representation.

La’auli also called on the Samoa Netball Association and the wider sporting community to work together to identify and nurture talented players, both in Samoa and among Samoan communities overseas.

He recognised the contribution Samoans living in New Zealand, Australia and other countries could make to the growth of netball through their skills, experience and passion for the sport.

The Samoa Netball Association Cup provides an opportunity to strengthen these connections, bringing together teams from Samoa and overseas for several days of competition.