Young Samoans could be on their way to studying in the United States and playing American football under an initiative by Samoa Tag and the Rock Sports Academy.

A camp for young athletes took place on Thursday at the Samoa Tag field in Tuanaimato.

The officials from the Rock Sports Academy believe the Samoans can thrive in the sport and they are trying to create a pathway for the Polynesians.

Players between the ages of 15 to 25 participated in a whole day trial of fitness and drills under the keen observation of the Rock Sports Academy representatives.

The President of the Samoa Tag Association, Faaofonuu JP Leota, has been involved with sports for decades and he knows the potential Samoa has.

“The Rock Sports Academy and Samoa Tag are working together in creating pathways for our youth in Samoa and through this we are hoping to get the scholarships overseas in American colleges for better education and career opportunities,” he said.

“This was in the talks for a while and we were waiting for the right timing. We see the potential in our locals and youth not only for sport but for education as well which is one of the key reasons behind this project.

“We all agree that education is a priority first and then sport, through this partnership with Rock Sports Academy and Samoa Tag, we are going to continue this program into the future.

“Many Samoan legends have pursued football and my Job is to make sure that Samoa Tag athletes and the youth have an opportunity to crossover and play in American football and we are really grateful for this partnership.”

The Academy officials have hinted at finding some players from Savai’i and have promised to make it public once the official paperwork is done and the green light is given.

The Rock Sports Academy is an organisation focused purely on the development of athletes.