Manu Samoa brings smiles to survivors of crime

By Nefertiti Matatia 27 June 2018, 12:00AM

The Manu Samoa team donated $200 and rugby balls to the Samoa Victim Support Group (S.V.S.G.) yesterday.

Held at Tuanaimato, the team emphasised to the children that the scars of their past should never determine their journey. 

It was an emotional day for the team to witness the young children dance with smiles, regardless of what they have been through.

Manu Samoa team Manager, Va’aelua Aloi Alesana, said the players were happy to visit the S.V.S.G. ahead of their all important Rugby World Cup qualification test against Germany this weekend. 

 “The message that we are trying to carry across to each and everyone here is that we love you. Just down the road from here is where the Samoa Rugby Union is located. It is hard for the Manu Samoa to shine out to the world when just around the corner where we are based, you are all there and we didn’t get to come and see you.”

“This is the reason the management and the team have come to remind everyone here that there is always hope. The Manu Samoa boys would play but their heart and spirit are here with these children.”

“There are so many of us in the Manu Samoa team and management that have children, this is the reason our hearts feel heavy. We know and believe that the God we worship he would make a way or everyone to take to heart through the programmes that is being provided by the caretakers of the Samoa Victim Support Group,” he said.

Despite the busy schedule of the Manu Samoa players preparing for their match against Germany, they still made time to see the children at Tuanaimato.

“There is not a member of the Manu Samoa team that does not feel happy and we thank God for this opportunity that we are able to be together.  There is hope that we could build a better tomorrow even when times are hard.”

The children’s performance also inspired the players. 

“Thank you for the beautiful performances, we will leave this place satisfied and confident for the upcoming game knowing that everyone here today (yesterday) is supporting and cheering us on.”

“We also apologise if the performance of the Manu Samoa team has not been successful, we cannot give half of what we are and leave the other half. We play for you kids who are here and our whole country.”

By Nefertiti Matatia 27 June 2018, 12:00AM
Samoa Observer

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