Statement by Taupau Tauileave Toluono, President of Marist Pago, Amerika Samoa
“I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me”
Philippians 4:13.
First and foremost, we acknowledge the love of God that continues to strengthen Marist Pago in our efforts to promote rugby as we host the 5th Coca Cola Marist Pago Flag Day International Sevens. Viia pea le Alii ma lona agalelei.
Revitalizing a rugby tournament after a long break was a huge challenge for our organization. While our Marist ‘mafutaga’ are few in number, we courageously took on a daunting task – bringing back a 7s tournament for American Samoa. Our members handled several logistical tasks from tournament preparation to operations. Securing technical officials to maintain tournament international standards posed a difficult hurdle leading us to recruit from off island.
We are grateful for our sponsors who believed in our efforts and the return of their investments – given the Covid pandemic and the fact that the last sevens tournament was in 2014. The lack of finances was another significant factor that led our club to partner with the business community. It was the nature of these partnerships that would ensure the credibility of our organizing committee regarding governance and accountability. Thankfully, God prevailed and shared in abundance His kindness through the American Samoa Government, GHC Reid & Company Ltd. (Vailima), our wonderful business community and various Marist partners. Our people rallied behind their teams which added to the great atmosphere at the stadium during last year’s tournament. Our country witnessed a monumental gathering to end the Flag Day Celebrations. For that, we are most grateful.
This year, the expansion of 4 to 5 teams for American Samoa is a step forward in rebuilding our pool of players for national selection. It is our collective drive with the American Samoa Rugby Union. We welcome once again, teams from neighboring Upolu and Savaii that boost the competitive edge of fixtures. Marist Hawaii will join in for the first time. We are also pleased to host our Guest of Honor, the legendary Manu Sevens Captain, Lolo Lui – a world champion and the renowned drop goal king that changed the dynamics of world rugby sevens from the continuous play to opting for line outs and drop goals. A feature that was repeated by rugby powerhouses South Africa and New Zealand. His part in inspiring our local players will be important as we continue to promote the game in American Samoa.
Once again, we partner with the GHC Family of Business through its Coca Cola brand. Hence, this year’s tournament name, the 5th Coca Cola Marist Pago Flag Day International Sevens. I acknowledge with thanks the ready support of CEO Cherith Lober-Soliai and team. We also appreciate the full support of Bluesky Communications – our preferred telecommunications provider for the tournament. The vision shared by CEO Justin Tuiasosopo of a 5G network in line with the 5th installment of the tournament reflects the growth and connection with the community. We are thankful to the support of all businesses in American Samoa.
FAAFETAI, FAAFETAI, FAAFETAI TELE.
Lastly, to Honorable Lemanu Palepoi Sialega Mauga and the American Samoa Government, thank you for your leadership and entrusting Marist Pago with support from the Office of the Governor and all government departments. E manuia taumafaiga a le atunuu i le lagolago a le Malo.
To all Marist volunteers, thank you for keeping the Marist Spirit alive with your tireless service. “Sipili Malisi” is what drives the heart to lend a hand, share a meal, give support and contribute in whatever way possible to uplift our individual responsibilities.
I wish all teams an enjoyable tournament and make sure to find time to explore the uniqueness of American Samoa from the natural landscape, commerce and way of life.
Faafetai tele
