Launch Release

(GOVT. PRESS SECRETARIAT); The Inaugural WORLD NINES – Confederation Cup tournament was officially launched in Apia earlier today.

Prime Minister Tuilaepa Sailele Malielegaoi acknowledged the many benefits that Samoa stands to reap from the upcoming tournament.

“The magnitude of the WORLD NINES – Confederation Cup tournament is the first of its kind in rugby league to be played on our home soil,” said Tuilaepa.

“While this will focus on international interest on Samoa as a sporting nation, it will also portray our capacity to host world events, and demonstrate the capabilities of our sports personnel and infrastructure that have made it possible to conduct and facilitate several international sporting events in the past.”

Tuilaepa also highlighted some of the crucial elements to justify the Government’s decision to host the tournament in Samoa this year.

“The tournament will benefit not just our athletes, as esteemed media coverage of Samoa as the Host County will benefit Samoa as a whole, while opportunities to expand knowledge of local coaches and referees in the rugby league code will be acquired at no cost.  These were crucial elements in government’s decision to host this tournament in Apia.”

Scheduled for October, the WORLD NINES – Confederation Cup will feature rugby league talents – both men and women from around the world and the Pacific. It is also a platform for players to improve their experience and skills in the code, as well as promote their careers through the exposure during the tournament.

During the tournament, National coaches from every competing nation will be in Samoa for the WORLD NINES – Confederation Cup, and local coaches and referees will join each international team in a major coach refereeing and trainers’ up-skilling program.  The aim is to enhance their level of professionalism in officiating games and in coaching.