American Samoa is a rugby island and that state of mind and spirit have guided us through thick and thin when it comes to the development of rugby.
It hasn’t been easy but through hard work and commitment, rugby has come a long way over the past several years.
We went from only having village clubs competing with one another to establishing an IRB affiliated organization – the American Samoa Rugby Union. This is in addition to competing in tournaments both within the South Pacific and internationally.
The journey hasn’t been a smooth one. Yet, despite the hard sweat, heartbreaking decisions, and frustrated tears along the way – the state of mind and the spirit of rugby in American Samoa is stronger than ever.
It was in that spirit that the 4th Marist St Joseph Pago International 7s planning committee set out to honor and preserve American Samoa’s rugby culture and heritage.
Not only through game but by recognizing the extraordinary achievements of our country men and women who have made significant contributions to rugby for the island.
Some played, some served, some gave their all to the sport here and abroad.
Join us as Marist St. Josephs Pago recognizes the efforts of those that have made a significant impact on the sport of rugby in American Samoa.
While this is our first time honoring local rugby legends, it certainly is not the last and we plan to honor more local legends in upcoming years.
We begin this tradition with our first official Marist St. Joseph Pago Legends Awards honoring 7 outstanding members of our territory.
Though some unsung heroes have passed, least not we forget their wonderful rugby careers and accolades.
We salute the work of these distinguished athletes and also commemorate the value of women in rugby.
At the same time, we must not forget to remember athletes who contributed to this sport in our community but also to the Marist St. Josephs Sports Club.