Schools that qualified for the BSP Rugby Championships 2023 have kicked off the first day of the tournament on Monday in their bid to become the 2023 champions and trophy holders. 

The tournament in different divisions was organised by Lakapi Samoa in consultation with the college principals with the Bank of the South Pacific (BSP) Samoa and the Ministry of Education, Sports, and Culture (MESC) supporting the tournament. There are a total of 28 schools in the country on Savai'i and Upolu and all colleges have qualified for the tournament.

This year's championship, which culminates this week, has been intense with the school regional zone qualification rounds running from 17–21 April 2023. It features teams from a total of 28 educational institutions. The top two teams from four divisional age grades – both boys and girls in each regional zone – will qualify for the rugby championships finals that will take place at St. Joseph’s on Friday.

Out of the 27 schools, each one of them has separate divisions, and age groups with a total of over 100 students, boys and girls competing. The tournament has been a highlight for the crowd with the parents following the success of their children. 

In an interview with the Secretary of SSPA, Salaivao Talagafa told the Samoa Observer of their future plans and the upcoming wishes submitted by the Association of Principals in Samoa and Lakapi Samoa.

“We planned this tournament months ago, we and other principals have finally made this dream big come true. It showcases the talents of young teenagers in rugby," Salaivao said. “Back then, rugby in schools was particularly for Upolu colleges, which differs from time to now that we have upgraded and have moved to higher levels for the betterment of both islands, Upolu and Savaii,” he said.

“We did not expect this type of support and spirit, all schools are competing at full strength with the massive support of their parents. I thank all parents for coming today, and this ongoing week until its culmination after finals on Friday”

Taala Tui Komiti, the Development and Competitions Manager of Lakapi Samoa, also added his words of acknowledgment to strengthen the spirit of these young Samoans competing.

“Not only are the boys that are recognizable, but also girl teams in different divisions. It changes the vibe when seeing girls play this sport. It strengthens the teams physically and spiritually," he said.

“Women and Men are equal and equality is becoming one of our major priorities today. The schools are giving me the chills and I feel very proud of all the teenage students of Samoa. Not every student is good academically, anyhow sport can be a second option and will always be a habit to every individual in Samoa." 

Competitors for the long run are as follows in Zone sorting,

Zone A:

Aleipata College

Leififi College

Palalaua College

Vaimauga College

Samoa College

Falealili College

Lepa & Lotofaga

Zone B:

Church College of Pesega

St. Joseph’s College

Maluafou College

Faleata College

 Zone C:

Itu O Tane Colege

Tuasivi College

Amoa College

Church College of Vaiola

Asau College

Palauli College

Palauli Sisifo College

Savaii Sisifo College

Zone D: 

Nuuausala College

Wesley College

Leulumoega Fou College

Safata College

Paul VI College

Aana 1 College

Aana 2 College

Sagaga College.