The Manu Samoa team to play in the upcoming World Cup tournament in England next month was announced by team Manager, Namualuulu Sami Leota.
The announcement was made at a farewell lunch hosted by the Government of Samoa for the national team before they depart tonight.
The lunch was attended by the Member of the Council of Deputy, Afioga Tuimalealiifano Sualauvi II, Cabinet Ministers, Heads of Government Ministries and Corporations, families and friends of the team and the team management.
Deputy Prime Minister, Afioga Fonotoe Nuafesili Lauofo on behalf of Government delivered the keynote address where he encouraged and advice the team to play their best at the highest level of sportsmanship.
“You are ambassadors of our country, your families and your parents.”
He advice the boys to let the world know that the Manu Samoa always play the game ethically and at the highest level of the sport.
The Deputy Prime Minister said this is the seventh world cup tournament that Samoa will compete in although we will be pooling together with the likes of Scotland and America.
“We will compete against teams from big countries with more funds to prepare for this tournament, but our strength is with our people,” encouraged Fonotoe.
“We find encouragement and the strength needed for the game if we put together our minds, our souls and our hearts.
The team’s manager, Namulauulu Sami Leota in his remarks acknowledged the Government and people of Samoa’s support for the Manu Samoa.
“I want to acknowledge all that has been done from yourself as a fan, as a supporter and as a sponsor towards your Manu Samoa and also wishing the boys luck,” said Namulauulu.
“We are very happy and honoured with your support and your prayers.”
The Manu Samoa team:
• Props - Viliamu Afatia, Jeff Grey, Logovii Mulipola, Anthony Perenise, Sakaria Taulafo,
• Hookers - Wayne Oloavei, Maatulimanu Leiataua, Motu Matuu
• Locks - Teofilo Paulo, Ken Thompson, Iosefo Tikori,
• Loose forward - Maurrie Faasavalu, Alafoti Faosiliva, DJ Ioane, Jack Lam, Vavae Tuilagi, Faifili Levave, Ofisa Trevaranus Captain
• Half backs - Vavao Afemai, Kahn Fotualii
• First five eight - Patrick Faapale, Tusiata Pisi, Michael Stanley
• Midfielders - Ray Lee Lo, Johnny Leota, George Pisi, Paul Perez
• Outside backs - Faatoina Autagavaia, Ken Pisi, Tim Nanai Williams
• No. 31 - Alesana Tuilagi