It was a successful Vailima Faleata Independence 7s tournament this year showcasing the spirit of Samoan independence. The organisers are now hoping to turn this into an international tournament.

Vaimoso Rugby defied the elements and emerged as the champions of the tournament over the weekend.

According to President of the Faleata Rugby Union Leuluaialii Tony Aiono, despite the challenging weather conditions, with gusty winds and heavy rain throughout the day, the 12 competing teams displayed resilience on the historic occasion of Samoa's 62nd Independence Day. 

“This is the first time in rugby history to run a tournament like this on Independence Day,” said Leuluaialii.

The tournament director, Lemalu John Lemiso, suggested naming the tournament after Independence Day when they realised that the competition was scheduled for the Independence Day weekend. As a result, the competition was named the Vailima Faleata Independence 7s, in line with the timing of Independence Day and a gateway into the Marist 7s competition at the end of this month.

BSP Laumua o Tumua took the silver medal while Taumeasina Island Resort Moataa rugby club secured the bronze. Additionally, all other participating teams received consolation prizes in the form of money and drinks, sponsored by Vailima.

Phillip Luki, a former Manu Samoa 7s player, was recognised as the Most Valuable Player (MVP) for his outstanding performance during the tournament.

Moving forward, Leuluaialii highlighted the need for new younger players to represent Samoa in the national Manu Samoa Sevens team.

"Next year we plan on having an international sevens competition where we will invite teams from overseas like New Zealand, Australia, American Samoa," said Leuluaialii. 

The president said that next year's competition will serve a bigger goal.

"The purpose of next year's tournament will be to identify players not for the local clubs but for our national team - the Manu Samoa Sevens," said Leuluaialii.

The president acknowledged the main sponsors, Vailima Samoa Breweries Ltd, General Manager Moira Sim and SSFA for their help and contribution to the competition. 

The event also featured the presence of the Minister of Sports, Laumatiamanu Ringo Purcell, who delivered a speech on behalf of the government, emphasizing the significance of developing rugby at the grassroots and club level for the advancement of talent in the country.