The new goal for Special Olympics Samoa in 2016 is to see further development with programs to enable monthly games, specialized skill based courses, one-on-one coaching of athletes skill level and to continue the awareness for potential Special Olympians to join the strong contingent of athletes.  

“Special Olympics Samoa is very special to Digicel, it grew with Digicel and was initiated to develop our young special athletes to prove to themselves, their families, community and the world that they can look beyond the barriers man has set up of any class system and become greater individuals,” said Digicel C.E.O, Rory Condon.

Chairman of SO Samoa, Leta’a Daniel Devoe adds that the presented amount of $40,000 tala is not entirely all of Digicel’s sponsorship for S.O Samoa. 

“Digicel gives more each year with in-kind support such as merchandise, events and more. Digicel assists us with all of these.” 

C.E.O of S.O Samoa, Tusitina Nuuvali says “We have been laughed at and at times given the idea that we can’t live up to what other people are capable of. “However, Digicel has not only supported us financially, but they believe in us - for that, we are grateful.”

The contract was renewed and marked by an MOU signing by Digicel’s Head of Corporate Affairs, Leaupepetele Talai Jr Lene and the Chairman of the Board of SO Samoa, Leta’a Daniel Devoe, with CEO of SO Samoa, Tusitina Nuuvali, Digicel staff and the media present during the Press Conference.

Special Olympics Samoa successfully returned in 2015 from the Special Olympics World Games in Los Angeles, CA, USA with 13 Medals having competed against 6500 athletes from 177 countries. Obtaining medals and being able to place in these competitions is a feat not often obtained by athletes, as athletes from around the world descended upon Los Angeles with months of preparations all with the goal of winning medals for their countries.