The grassroots rugby season kicks off on Saturday with the Taula Apia Rugby Union 7’s Tournament at the S.R.U. Fields in Tuanaimato. 

Sixteen teams will compete in the day-long tournament, which will be a crucial hit-out for clubs ahead of the Marist International Sevens in two weeks’ time.

Savaii’s Tama Uli Salelologa have been invited to compete, and the two-time defending national champions are probably favourites to win even without Manu Samoa 7s reps Elisapeta Alofipo and Uaina Sione.

HJ Keil Vaimoso Rugby Club are fielding two teams in the competition, and coach Tuaolo Komiti Manuleleua said they decided to do so because of his players’ commitment to trainings.

“I tried so hard to include all the boys… to make use of all the kids from the village.”

Tuaolo said it had been tough trying to get team together during the measles state of emergency, while players getting picked for representative squads had also disrupted preparations.

“We’ve been training since Christmas and New Year until now,” he said.

The coach said Saturday’s competition would be a good test before the Marist Sevens on the 14^th and 15^th of February.

“We’re getting there…, my boys are ready now,” Tuaolo said.

He said the 2020 season will be dedicated to the young men Vaimoso lost last year; Faiva Tagatauli and Joseph Une.

Tuaolo also thanked the club’s sponsor’s for their long-term support.

“We’re so happy that they’re lending a hand, and trying to support us in every way,” he said.

Previously the Anoamaa Rugby Union held their 7s tournament on the 17^th of January in Saoluafata.

Apia Sevens schedule:

Pool A

Pool B

Pool C

Pool D

Playoffs