As the 2024 Pacific Championships begin, Samoa’s women’s team is gearing up for a crucial campaign in the Pacific Bowl competition. Representing one of the proudest Rugby League nations in the Pacific, Samoa is aiming to make waves, with an eye on promotion to the prestigious Pacific Cup.
The tournament brings together some of the strongest Pacific nations, and for Samoa, this year is all about rising through the ranks. The Pacific Bowl features Samoa alongside Tonga, Fiji, and the Cook Islands, with the winner earning the right to face the third-placed team from the Pacific Cup in a promotion playoff. Victory in that playoff would see Samoa elevated to the elite division of the Pacific Championships for the next season, where they would battle with powerhouses like Australia and New Zealand.
The Pacific has long been a region where Rugby League thrives, and Samoa’s participation symbolises the deep connection between the sport and Pacific Island culture. Known for their powerful and physical style of play, Samoan athletes have become key figures in Rugby League both locally and internationally. This tournament is a chance for the nation to build on that legacy, with the potential to become one of the dominant forces in the Pacific.
Key Match:
Samoa vs Tonga: Saturday, October 19, 5:00 PM (AEDT), HFC Bank Stadium, Suva.
Led by standout players like Annetta Nuuausala and Simone Karpani, the Samoan women’s team has the talent and drive to challenge for top honours. Their path to promotion begins with a crucial opening match against regional rivals Tonga. A win in this contest will set the tone for the rest of their campaign.
The stakes are higher than ever in 2024, with the Pacific Championships introducing a promotion-relegation system. This means every match counts as Samoa competes not just for silverware but for a place in the top tier of Pacific Rugby League.
With the passion of their fans and a rich sporting heritage behind them, Samoa’s women’s team is ready to make their mark in the Pacific Championships and continue their ascent in the Rugby League world.
Fetu Samoa Team
Annetta Nuuausala
Christian Pio
Destiny Brill
Evah McEwen
Evania Pelite
Jasmine Fogavini
Jessica Patea
Jetaya Faifua
Laikha Clarke
Lindsay Tui
Makayla Eli
Mercedez Taulelei-Siala
Monalisa Soliola
Pauline Piliae-Rasabale
Pihuka Berryman Duff
Sarina Masaga
Shontelle Stowers
Sienna Lofipo
Simone Karpani
Tavarna Papalii
Tonga Team
Tegan Dymock
Kate Fallon
Tatiana Finau
Claudia Finau
Vanessa Foliaki (C)
Jade Fonua
Maatuleio Fotu-Moala
Metanoia Fotu-Moala
Litia Fusi
Filomina Hanisi
Kalosipani Hopoate
Shirley Mailangi
Anaseini Malupo
Shannon Muru
Emmanita Paki
Natasha Penitani (C)
Dannii Perese
Manilita Takapautolo
Lavinia Tauhalaliku
Cassey Tohi-Hiku
Paea Uilou
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