The Samoa Touch Men’s Team is set to create history as the first team from Samoa Touch to
participate 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.

Caption: Samoa Touch Men’s Team Farewell at SASNOC Head Office, Tuanaimato

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.
This event marks a new chapter for Samoa, as the youngest-ever Men’s team will represent
the nation in the highly competitive Men’s Premier Division. With an average age of just 25
and the youngest players 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.

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 delegation 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.
As an international invitational team, Samoa will not accrue points at the State Cup, but the
experience gained will be invaluable. The team acknowledges the generous support from
sponsors, families, and the community. Together, they have made this dream a reality, setting
the stage for a brighter future for touch rugby in Samoa.
This historic journey symbolizes STRI’s commitment to inclusive and sustainable growth,
ensuring touch rugby continues to thrive in Samoa and on the global stage.
“Tuala Mathew Vaea (CEO-SASNOC) highlighted the importance of focusing on grassroot
development to ensure continuous growth by reflecting on his journey as a professional
athlete, as well as other former and current professional athletes, which started from touch

rugby in New Zealand and Australia. He further highlighted Samoa Touch’s three gold medals
from the SOL23 Pacific Games 2023 as the epitome of the success of these development
programs that focuses on harnessing local talent. Tuala also thanked the support of the
partners, families and friends who have continued to support Samoa Touch’s efforts and
congratulated the athletes who will making their debut for Samoa in this tournament”.