Samoa Boss Open Up About Overcoming Adversity that makes all fans glad and…

Samoa Boss Open Up About Overcoming Adversity to Qualify for the Women’s Rugby World Cup**

The Manusina women’s rugby team has faced numerous challenges on their journey to qualifying for the 2025 Women’s Rugby World Cup, not least of which are the financial difficulties plaguing Lakapi Samoa, the governing body of rugby in Samoa.

 

Samoa rugby facing 'significant financial challenges', withdraws from  Europe tour : r/rugbyunionThe team achieved a historic milestone earlier this month, qualifying for the World Cup for the first time since 2014. Despite their success, the team and their supporters understand the road ahead remains tough, especially as they prepare to face strong opposition in the tournament, alongside fellow Pacific Islanders, Fiji.

Manusina captain Masuisuimatama’ali’i Tauaua-Pauaraisa reflected on the team’s journey, acknowledging the struggle of being under-resourced yet still managing to achieve significant results. She stressed the importance of the community’s support as they look to compete on the world stage. Pauaraisa revealed that, at times, the players received as little as NZ$130-$300 for an entire tournament, and sometimes even their gear arrived late or was missing. She credited the team’s coach, Mata’afā Lauaki Ramsey Tomokino, for stepping up to support the players financially, often using his own funds to cover team expenses.

Pauaraisa also noted that, while much attention is focused on the men’s Manu Samoa team, the women’s team has quietly persisted with humility and faith. “We just got on with it, and God blessed us by qualifying for the World Cup,” she said. The team’s sense of purpose and determination has driven them to overcome adversity, and they now hope their success will inspire future generations.

Coach Mata’afā spoke about his support for the team, emphasizing that it was out of love for the players—many of whom are mothers and have families to support. He explained that the financial troubles faced by the Samoa Rugby Union have left the team in a difficult position, forcing him to dip into his own pocket to cover necessary expenses, including player allowances and travel costs.

Lakapi Samoa’s CEO, Faleomavaega Vincent Fepuleai, acknowledged the union’s financial struggles, which have been exacerbated by a lack of sponsors, failed commercial deals, and the lingering effects of the Covid-19 pandemic. He confirmed that the union’s primary source of funding is World Rugby, which helps cover travel and competition-related costs. However, this funding does not extend to allowances or team apparel, which the union must raise funds for independently.

Despite these financial hurdles, Faleomavaega expressed admiration for the Manusina team, commending their resilience and pride in representing Samoa. He vowed to continue supporting them as best as possible, emphasizing that the team has consistently operated within its budget and has never wavered in its commitment to representing their country with dignity.

The story of Manusina’s journey to the Women’s Rugby World Cup is one of perseverance and determination, as they continue to push forward despite minimal resources. Their success is a testament to their dedication, and the support of the community and union will be crucial in ensuring their continued progress on the world stage.

https://lifestyleroom.net/Samoa Boss Open Up About Overcoming Adversity that makes all fans glad and…/ ‎

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