S.R.U. chairman optimistic

By Sarafina Sanerivi 21 February 2017, 12:00AM

The chairman of the Samoa Rugby Union is full of optimism about the future of the Manu Samoa Seven’s rugby team.

With Sir Gordon Tiejtens as Head Coach, Tuilaepa Sa’ilele Malielegaoi said he is confident that there will be transformation in the way our players play in the near future. 

“The game of rugby is evolving and it’s changing,” said Tuilaepa. 

“That’s the same with how players play the game. 

“If we look carefully, there was a time when New Zealand was the only team at the top. 

“They were undefeated. But is that the same case today? Are they still at the top?”

He continued on to say that that has been the same for Fiji. 

“There was also a time when the Fijian team was unbeatable. They were the best. They won the Olympic Gold medal as well. 

“But what about now, are they still at the top?”

Moreover, there was also a time when Manu Samoa was champions. 

“The thing is,the game changes from time to time and there are different methods, techniques and skills used.

“But I am very positive that for the Manu Samoa, Tiejtens is doing his best to develop and train our boys.

“He is a pro. He has coached for so many years and he is committed to his work.”

Nevertheless, Tuilaepa concedes that Tiejtens is not looking at getting the right results today. 

“I can see and understand that he is looking ahead; he is looking at the long term and the future of this team. 

“He isn’t just looking at the development of rugby for today; he is training these boys for the next World Cup.”

Moreover, as the chairman of the S.R.U, Tuilaepa said he is also constantly following up on the performance of the players. 

“We push them and motivate them to use their patriotic attitudes when they play.

“Not only that, but we advise them to be patient.” 

Although it was not spelled out, being patient is advice that supporters and fans might also be well advised to heed as the team develops and adjusts to the new management regime.

By Sarafina Sanerivi 21 February 2017, 12:00AM

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