Vodafone Samoa continues to support grassroots rugby in Samoa and on Monday announced its continued sponsorship of a domestic tournament after signing a contract extension with Lakapi Samoa.

The telecommunications company is sponsoring the National Provincial Cup starting next weekend from 18 March to 22 April 2023 with Vodafone saying in a written statement issued on Monday that they are excited to see how the tournament will unfold.

The company said this year will be a great year for rugby in general and there's no better way to promote this then having the country's current reigning Miss Samoa, Haylani Pearl Kuruppu as the face of the entire campaign.

Rugby points to the future rugby stars of this country with Vodafone saying it should inspire them to reach their potential and someday be able to wear the Blue Jersey on the global stage. 

"The sport teaches young people to be disciplined and be better human beings. It will encourage grass roots growth and motivate our young ones to embrace the benefits of sports," reads the statement. 

Rana Bose, Acting CEO of Vodafone Samoa, said in the written statement that over the years Vodafone has been supporting Lakapi Samoa to identify and train grassroot rugby talents from villages to represent Samoa at the world stage.

"Many of them are already in the national team and making Samoa proud with their performances."

The CEO of Lakapi Samoa, Faleomavaega Vincent Fepulea’i, said they are proud to continue their partnership with Vodafone Samoa in the domestica tournament as the major sponsor of the National Provincial Championship. 

"This 15's tournament is important for the development of our up-and-coming players from around Samoa to feed into our Academy and pathway teams."