Ten tennis players have secured their spots in the Pacific Oceania Junior Championships in Fiji this year after a successful East Pacific Regional Championship in Samoa.

Samoa's head coach Steffi Carruthers-Thomsen confirmed a successful outing last week and said the focus now was on the tournament in Fiji mid-year.

"For under-12 girls, we have Pleyton Taei Carruthers, Toreka Soonalole, and Peyton Moala. For under-12 boys, we have Misiviliamu Warren, Seuifanua Penn, and Noah Scanlan. Then we have Pativaine Tevita for the under-14 girls. For under-16 girls, it's Dora Moors and Latoya Fruean. Then Austen Keni for the under-16 boys," she said.

She said she was happy with the performance of all her athletes. She said all the 20-plus athletes who played in the regional tournament were impressive.

"A team effort so good, it's one for the books! What an incredible tournament last week with this hardworking, determined, and sometimes wildly energetic group of young players" she said. 

"From first-timers to those in their final year, each one brought heart, and their unique personalities to the court. As head coach, I remind them that placing isn't everything - it's about growth, resilience, and learning from every match. The memories, lessons, and experiences they gained are things many don't get at such a young age."

She acknowlegded the unwavering support from her team's parents, coaching staff, management, association, volunteers and all their sponsors. 

With more than 20 players from Samoa, 10 successfully cemented their spots. All athletes showcased their potential on the court and went beyond to show what they were made of. 

The youngsters showed talent, determination, and great sportsmanship throughout the week of competition.

The coach believes that players have the potential to do better in Fiji and they will work towards achieving the goal.

The competition last week featured players from Samoa, American Samoa, Tonga and the Cook Islands.

Two other regional competitions were held as well. The West Pacific Championship held in Fiji featured players from Papua New Guinea, Solomon Islands, Vanuatu and Tuvalu.

Guam hosted the North Pacific Championship featuring teams from the Micronesian states. Winners from each of the regional tournaments now advance to the tournament in Fiji.

Every year after this tournament, players are selected to be part of Team Pacific and there is a tournament where they go up against players in the same age grade from Asia.