The Safata U18 girls are the champions in their division for the 2024 BSP Secondary School Championship after defeating Palauli I Sisifo 27-22. 

The two teams were in a similar situation last year, but this time, Safata emerged victorious. Grace Aileone, the 17-year-old fullback from Sataoa, said that the game against Palauli I Sisifo was tough and that their team was very strong.

"We didn't think we could win, but all the glory and praise goes back to God," said Aileone. "I'm overwhelmed with happiness. I'm glad we won, especially coming from the rural side of Upolu," she added.

Assistant coach Sefulu Farani Leota, who stepped in because the head coach was out of the country, said that the head coach’s training had prepared the girls well for this competition. 

"We lost to Palauli last year, so it's a great feeling. I know we have made many people proud, including our principal, the wider school, and also our district of Safata," said Leota. 

The U18 boys head coach, Onosai George of Sataoa, praised the girls' team for their efforts and commitment throughout the competition. 

"We are so happy for them. When coaching our teams, we share our knowledge and skills with each other so that it benefits both teams," said George. 

He also added that their team had a tough game and is proud of coming out as 4th-place winners. One of the players in the team, Autasi Atonio of Tafitoala, said, "The girls did pretty good because they worked together, they work as one, and I praise them for being the stronger team today."

The U18 boys lost their semi-finals against Wesley College, and according to their head coach, they made plenty of mistakes but still stood strong. The celebrations carried on before the end of the event as the U18 teams and the boys' teams cheered for the girls' team.

Match Results: 

U14 Girls 3rd Place Final winners - Sagaga College (4th, Itu O Asau College) 

U14 Boys 3rd Place Final winners - Nuuausala College (4th, Itu O Tane College)

U14 Girls Champions - Leulumoega Fou College (2nd, Wesely College)

U14 Boys Champions - St Joseph's College (2nd, Chruch College Pesega) 

U16 Girls 3rd Place Final winners - Aana No. 2 College (4th, Alofi O Taoa College) 

U16 Boys 3rd Place Final winners - Palalaua College (4th, Alofi O Taoa College)

U16 Girls Champions - Wesley College (2nd, Itu O Tane College)

U16 Boys Champions - Leulumoega Fou College (2nd, St Joseph's College) 

U18 Girls 3rd Place Final winners - Leififi College (4th, Aleipata College) 

U18 Boys 3rd Place Final winners - Wesley College (4th, Safata College)

U18 Girls Champions - Safata College (2nd, Palauli I Sisifo College)

U18 Boys Champions - Amoa College (2nd, St Joseph's College)