The Samoa Men's touch team departed Samoa early Wednesday for the Queensland State Cup 2024 in Coomera, Gold Coast Australia this weekend. 

The tour serves as a stepping stone towards their preparations for future regional and international tournaments including the Touch World Cup 2028 in New Zealand.

Samoa Touch Rugby Incorporated (S.T.R.I) President Matiu Tuileva said this historic debut reflects the hard work and dedication of everyone involved in  Samoa Touch Rugby. 

"Our players are ambassadors for Samoa, and their participation highlights the progress we are making as a nation in this sport. We are committed to building on this momentum and ensuring that Samoa becomes a regular and formidable presence in international competitions like the Queensland State Cup," he said.

This is the youngest-ever men’s team to represent the nation with an average age of 25 years and the youngest players at 15 years old.

Head coach Kalolo Lepou said being part of the tournament was a step up to international competitions.

"Our participation in the Queensland State Cup not only prepares us for the challenges of the international stage but also represents the resilience, ambition, and pride of our athletes. We aim to inspire the next generation and cement Samoa’s position as a rising force in touch rugby," he said.

This historic journey symbolizes STRI's commitment to inclusive and sustainable growth,  ensuring that touch rugby continues to thrive in Samoa and on the global stage. 

The Chief Executive Officer for Samoa Association of Sports and National Olympic Committee, Tuala Mathew Vaea during their farewell on Monday evening highlighted the importance of focusing on grassroots development.

Despite financial challenges that prevented the men’s team's participation in the Touch  World Cup in England earlier this year, Samoa Touch Rugby Incorporated (STRI) remained steadfast in its mission to develop touch rugby in Samoa and expand opportunities for its athletes. 

The touring delegation consists of 12 Samoa-based players, four Australia-based players, and a management team of four, making a total of 20. 

As an international invitational team, Samoa will not accrue points at the State Cup, but the experience gained will be invaluable. The team acknowledged the generous support from sponsors, families, and the community. 

Players that will be traveling for this tour are Ralphen Fenika Viane, Danny Semo Sititi Karegua, Enetosi Foaese, George Aloiafi Komiti, Dominic Papu Ioasa Afamasaga, Eteuati (Uati) Viliamu O'brien, Michael (Ras) James Bernard Rasmussen, Leonidas Kaleb Iamanatu Ieremia, Adrian Herbert Roma, Tapelu Tunufai, Johnny Perez, Uelese Eteuati, Poiasenetenari Sailala Samuelu Jr Musubire, Vitaliano Lui, Jesse Thomas Michael Ephraim Leituvae, and Ezrah Eddishaw Wright.