Vodafone Samoa and Samoa Touch Rugby Incorporation (S.T.R.I.) have extended their partnership with the global telecommunication network signing on as naming rights sponsor.

Vodafone Samoa announced the news in a media release. According to the company, it states the partnership first started in mid-2018.

The Vodafone Samoa Chief Executive Officer, Nofoasaefa Satish Sharma, said that the company has supported the Vodafone Samoa Touch Rugby Inc through thick and thin.

“And we are proud to be making another commitment to this fantastic sport that unites and connects fans and communities from every corner of Samoa like no other – much like our network,” he said.

The President of Samoa Touch, Mailata Michael Wulf, said that they are truly grateful for the opportunity to continue the partnership with Vodafone Samoa.

“It is a partnership aimed to serve our touch community and to help develop and promote the sport of touch in Samoa,” said Mailata.

Nofoasaefa also said that they have seen the commitment of Samoa Touch Inc. to host local tournaments in order to keep developing the sport in Samoa.

“It’s a fun atmosphere at every game and much like our network, this sport is for everyone," Nofoasaefa said.

“We’re excited for what is to come and we wish STRI all the best on all its initiatives.”  

During Vodafone’s sponsorship era, the Vodafone Samoa Touch Rugby Inc. have had the opportunity to represent Samoa Touch on an International Level in Malaysia for the Touch World Cup in 2019 l. At that event the Samoa Touch Mixed Open team came 4th overall while the Men’s team came 9th overall and the Women’s Touch Rugby Team came 12th overall.

And in the Pacific Games hosted in Samoa 2019, all Samoa Touch Division won three silver medals.

Accordoing to Samoa Touch Rugby the organisation seeks to cement its status as a leading community sport and broaden its player base.

The organisation hopes to increase physical activity and combat the rise of lifestyle diseases.

Acccording to the organisation Vodafone (since its launch date) have invested over $370,000 worth of monetary and in-kind support within local communities.