Bluesky delighted with historical Super rugby fixture

By Ilia L. Likou 01 February 2017, 12:00AM

The Chief Executive Officer (C.E.O) of Bluesky’s Pacific Group, Tole’afoa Douglas Creevey, has expressed delight at the opportunity to be a presenting partner of the first Investec Super Rugby Championship game between the Blues and Reds to be played in Apia.

Scheduled for Friday 2 June 2017 at the Apia Park, the historical fixture is a reflection of Bluesky’s continued support of sports in Samoa. 

It follows the company’s unwavering support for Samoan rugby, which included the one-off test between the Manu Samoa and the All Backs at Apia Park in 2015. 

 “We are proud to be a part of facilitating and connecting our people to a game they love,” Tole’afoa said in a statement issued after the launch in Auckland on Monday.

Prime Minister and the Chairman of the Samoa Rugby Union, Tuilaepa Sailele Malielegaoi attended the event at the Samoa House in Mangere, Auckland.

For Tole’afoa and Bluesky, the excitement does not stop with the fact two Super rugby teams are heading to Samoa for the first time.

“It’s also a highlight for us that fifteen of the Blues players and six of the Reds players are Samoan bred,” Tole’afoa said. 

“We want to continue communicating our passion for sports and its development in Samoa. This is a great opportunity to support the strength and spirit of Rugby Union locally.” 

“It will encourage grass roots growth and motivate our young ones to embrace the benefits of sports. We also want to embrace the exclusivity of such an event for Samoa. This is really big for our country and we’re excited to be part of this.”

Tole’afoa used the opportunity to briefly talk about Bluesky’s vision. 

 “Part of our vision is to be the most recognised I.C.T. company for connecting our Pacific communities around the world and what better way than to bring inspiration right to our doorstep,” he said. 

“We will be a part of an entertaining, elite first-time tournament in Samoa. More importantly we want our children, youth and young adults to know that they can aim high, and aspire to play this game professionally. After all, sky’s the limit.”

The Blues and Reds clash will be the first major rugby match to be played under lights at Apia Park, coinciding with Samoa’s 55th Independence Celebrations.

The Blues Chief Executive Michael Redman said this is a great opportunity for Samoa.

 “When we assessed all of our options within our region, taking this game to Samoa became an obvious choice,” Mr. Redman said in a statement. 

“Our Blues region is home to around hundred and fifty thousand proud Samoans and we have fifteen players in our team with Samoan heritage, along with our head coach Tana Umaga.”

“We were uncertain this could be organised so quickly given the draw was only announced four months ago. It has only been made possible by the efficient response and support of the Samoan Government, Samoan Tourism, the Samoa Rugby Union and Bluesky our leading commercial partner. In particular, we thank the Prime Minister for his leadership to make this event a reality.”

“This is an exciting opportunity for the Blues organisation and rugby both in our region and in Samoa.”

Prime Minister Tuilaepa said the fixture is part of Samoa’s plans to build on the success of hosting the All Blacks on 2015.

“We are absolutely honoured to see such an event held here in Samoa. This is a positive step for our country,” he said. 

“This will attract some great tourism and overseas activity, and it’s good to see such great support behind this match with our sponsors such as Bluesky. We hope in future to attract more select games to Samoa.” 

“The game will also be held on our Independence weekend which carries great significance for our country. We will proudly watch on and cheer for both sides in celebration of our independence and our love of sport.” 

By Ilia L. Likou 01 February 2017, 12:00AM
Samoa Observer

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