The Prime Minister's Cup tournament will kick off next week after a three-year hiatus due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the Minister of Education, Sports and Culture has confirmed.

In an interview with the Samoa Observer, Seuula Ioane Tuaau stressed that the event is essential for young aspiring athletes as well as to grow Samoa's capabilities in achieving sporting accolades.

The Prime Minister's Cup for U14 boys is an annual competition that sees the top U14 rugby teams representing primary schools across the country go head-to-head to select the best rugby team in that age bracket. 

"Sports is now growing in the country and we see this as a great opportunity to boost the spirits of the young aspiring sports athletes in the country," the Minister said. 

"It's a huge step for our country's next generation that's to come especially for those who see value in sports or the aspiring athletes. The Prime Minister's Cup started a long time ago but because of the [COVID-19] lockdown it's been halted."

According to Seuula, this tournament invites all selected rugby teams from each constituency from both Upolu and Savaii to participate.

The Palauli's U14 Boys XV were the last winners to claim the Prime Minister's Cup in 2021 after a hard-fought grand final against Faasaleleaga. 

Seuula also acknowledged last Friday afternoon's match between Moana Pasifika and Queensland Reds, which was historical as it marked the entry of the first Super Rugby Pacific game on home soil.

According to the Minister, the Super Rugby match was also a commemoration of Samoa's 60th Independence anniversary celebration, which will officially conclude in the first of June this year. 

"The Ministry through the sports sector is also looking at preparing a sports day for Samoa, Samoa Games especially the sports associations and clubs to participate in," Seuula added.

There are currently 145 primary schools in Samoa including schools in all its four main islands. However, only one school team is selected from each district to participate in the Prime Minister's Cup.