Answer to rugby woes is at grassroots level

Dear Editor

Re: How can we fix Samoan rugby?

In my previous posts, I mentioned the only permanent solution for our rugby is “grassroots” development. 

A grassroots programme (U6-U17) to covers the whole Samoa, from Falealupo to Aleipata. 

There is a goldmine of untapped potential in the village but there is lack of development. Such a programme will covers skills sets for each age groups, competition, training coaches, officials and volunteers. 

This programme will have a very clear pathways to the representative years (U16-U18) our school rugby programme is very limited, weak with no pathways.

I can give a list of juniors N.R.L./Rugby clubs we can learn from. We can develop our own stars without relying on rejects from NZ/Aus. 

Players can sign with any overseas club under a loan scheme with condition that he will be available if needed for Manu Samoa .

Our rep sides will have a large healthy pool of players to choose from.

Sports it’s a massive industry now compared to 30 years ago. I reckon we should treat development of sports seriously just like our other government funded development, tourism, agriculture etc etc

It’s a changing world we live in now. Go Manu.

 

Fili Lemana 

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