08/10/2024
SAMOA TO HOST OCEANIA ANTI-DOPING MINISTERIAL MEETING
By: Jasmine Netzler-Iose
The Minister of Sports and Recreation (MSR) will be co-facilitating the annual World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) Oceania Ministerial Meeting on Anti-Doping in Sport (OMMADS) later this month in Apia.
The confirmation was announced in a Press Release from the Ministry of Sports and Recreation reiterating the meeting to take place on 29th October 2024 at the Tanoa Tusitala Hotel.
The meeting will bring to Samoa 19 Oceania countries to discuss major issues of anti-doping experienced in sport and a way forward to continue the fight against doping in world sports.
This means a clean sport drive including countries committing to ‘implementation effective anti-doping programs and policies’.
Attending the meeting are Ministers and senior officials including Director General of WADA, Olivier Niggli.
Minister of Sports and Recreation of the Government of Samoa Laumatiamanu Ringo Purcell together with the President of WADA Witold Bańka will be the co-facilitators.
According to the release from the Ministry, “The OMMADS aims to strengthen regional collaboration in the fight against doping, promote clean sport, and protect the health and well-being of athletes. Participants will have the opportunity to share experiences, best practices, and discuss challenges faced in their respective countries.”
WADA
This international independent agency was established in 1999 and is made up and financially supported by the sport movement and governments of the world.
The agency’s key activities according to WADA’s website involve “scientific research, education, development of anti-doping capacities, and monitoring of the World Anti-Doping Code (Code) that coordinates anti-doping policies” in different sports and countries.
# Samoa Medical & Anti-Doping Agency
# Government of Samoa
# Samoa Association of Sports and National Olympic Committee
Photo: Samoa News Hub and Getty Images
21/08/2024
Awareness Session on Human Resource Policies and Entitlements for the New Ministry of Sports and Recreation by the Public Service Commission Samoa.
13/07/2024
In a rain-soaked clash at MSR's Apia Park Sports Complex this evening , Manu Samoa clinched a hard-fought 34-30 victory over a determined Spain side, marking their second international outing of 2024.
Despite challenging weather conditions, Samoa managed to secure a vital win on home turf.
The match kicked off with Samoa taking an early lead, quickly countered by Spain with a penalty, setting the stage for a tightly contested encounter.Initially appearing to dominate with a 14-3 lead, Samoa faced resilient opposition as Spain narrowed the gap to 14-10 with a well-executed try.
Samoa extended their advantage with another try before Spain closed the first half with a penalty, leaving the score at 21-13 in favor of Manu Samoa at the break.
The second half saw Spain turn the tables, briefly seizing a 23-21 lead with a successful penalty.
Undeterred, Manu Samoa responded swiftly, regaining control with two penalties to lead 27-23.Spain, displaying relentless determination, launched a final assault in the dying moments, rewarded with a crucial try , bringing the score to a tense 34-30 as the final whistle blew.
Despite the adverse weather conditions, Samoa showcased a commendable team effort, securing a satisfying victory amidst challenging circumstances.
Wishing our Manu Samoa all the best for the ongoing tournaments in schedule for 2024.
05/07/2024
In an unexpected twist, Manu Samoa pulled off a stunning upset against favorites Italy at Apia Park this afternoon, despite numerous streaming issues.
Samoa triumphed in a historic victory, our first against a Tier 1 nation since 2014.
Following the Rugby World Cup last year, Samoa’s new HC , Mahonri Schwalger, who had no prior coaching experience, stepped up.
In his debut match as head coach, Schwalger led us to an impressive victory over Italy at MSR’s Apia Park Sports Complex.
Italy fielded their strongest team but struggled to capitalize on their opportunities.
Samoa’s victory was largely attributed to their formidable defense, which effectively stymied Italy’s advances despite their possession advantage.
Samoa’s dominance in scrums and lineouts, coupled with their relentless rushing defense, proved decisive. Most of their tries came from broken play.
Samoa will face Spain at the Apia Park Sports Complex on the 13 July 2024, kick off at 4pm.
03/07/2024
Warm congratulations on the launch of the Ministry of Sports and Recreation on 1 July!
Wishing Hon. Minister Laumatiamanu Ringo Purcell and his team good luck!
Government of Samoa
Savali Newspaper
Samoa Sports Facilities Authority