Lakapi Samoa is proud to announce its partnership with Rugby
Australia through the Australian Government’s PacificAus Sports initiative to enhance the Manusina 7s
program.
This partnership will see the Australian Government 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.
Comments from Chief Executive Officer, Lakapi Samoa, Seumanu Douglas Ngau Chun
“On behalf of Lakapi Samoa, I sincerely acknowledge and express my gratitude to Rugby Australia, the
Australian Government, and PacificAus Sports for their generous support and investment of AUD
$800,000 towards the development of Manusina 7s. 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.
Furthermore, this support is instrumental in driving our 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.”
Comments from Australian High Commissioner to Samoa, His Excellency Will Robinson
“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. Rugby union has long been a part of our deep sporting connections, and Australia is committed to
its growth in Samoa and across the region.
A warm faafetai tele lava to Lakapi Samoa and Rugby Australia for their partnership, and we offer our best
wishes to the Manusina Sevens for the upcoming World Rugby Sevens Challenger Series.”
Comments from Chief Executive Officer, Rugby Australia, Phil Waugh
“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 the Australian-hosted 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.”