The Marist Brothers' Governance Board has officially apologised to the public for what they described as 'unruly behaviour' after the BSP National Schools Rugby finals, held at St. Joseph’s College at Alafua earlier this month.

Stones were thrown, and fights erupted as the school's supporters were unhappy with the final outcome. Police had to intervene to stop the madness. This has led to a four-year ban  sporting for the school.

Signed by the Chairman of the Marist Brothers' Governance Board, Aumua Ming Leung Wai, the Marist Brothers' Old Pupils Association (M.B.O.P.A.) highlighted that the unfortunate poor behaviour of a few has tarnished the good image, not only of St. Joseph’s College but also the Marist fraternity in Samoa.

"The Marist Brothers’ Governance Board would like to take this opportunity, to humbly and sincerely apologise for the unruly and unacceptable behaviour that occurred at the Rugby Finals," the statement reads.

"St Joseph’s College is the only remaining all-boys college in Samoa. As a Marist school which promotes the Marist spirit, high standards of sportsmanship, respect and integrity are expected. Our Governance Board acknowledges that the actions of some of our students fell short of these expectations.

"We deeply regret the disruption and negative impact caused at the rugby finals, particularly when such occurred within the compound of St Joseph’s College. In addition, our Samoan culture demands that the host ensures the safety of all visitors, including those from Amoa College and supporters from Savaii."

St. Joseph's College was unfortunately not only banned from rugby but also athletics and netball for our years as a result of the incident.

It is also stated in the letter that the school principal has taken full responsibility for the "unacceptable behaviour" of the students involved and has apologised in person and in writing to the Association of Secondary Principals in Samoa and the Samoa Rugby Union CEO. 

Meanwhile, the Governance Board has met with the senior management of the College to come up with clear strategies and policies to ensure that such unruly behaviour is never repeated.

"The Marist Brothers Old Pupils Association are deeply saddened by these events and will also assist as much as possible by actively supporting and being involved in the reforms and corrective actions needed, so the school can move forward and strengthen the true Marist Spirit and sportsmanship.

"St. Joseph’s College has a very proud history and is well known throughout Samoa for producing some of our most prominent citizens both in the public sector as well as the private sector. The Governance Board and the Marist Fraternity will not allow the actions of a few to destroy the excellent reputation of the school, and the public can be assured we will work hard to restore confidence and trust in St. Joseph’s College."

The Association appealed to parents, supporters and the public for their patience and their support as they cope with these challenges from the ban.

Samoa Observer understands that St. Joseph's College is not the first school to be banned from rugby and athletics.