The chairman of the International Tag Federation (ITF), Chris Cowan, and the Chief Executive Officer of Oztag is in Samoa this week to support the development of Tag in the country. The visit is part of preparations for the 2026 Tag World Cup.

Cowan met with Samoa Tag Incorporated officials, including representatives from the Australian High Commission, local coaches, and players, to discuss plans for providing equipment, coaching, and referee support. He stated that the goal is to assist Samoa in becoming internationally competitive and to help the Pacific region develop the sport.

“We will bring coaches and referees, provide some equipment so we can get it out to the players in all areas,” he said.

He highlighted the natural ability of Samoan players and noted that similar support had been provided to Fiji, with plans to expand assistance to Tonga and Papua New Guinea.

Faaofonuu Junior Leota, president of the Samoa Tag Incorporated, said Cowan’s visit and support from the international body will have a significant impact on local development. 

"We can now ask our world body to help assist all the clubs," he said.

Faaofonuu said Samoa will field teams in all 19 divisions at the World Cup next year. Training has begun early to prepare players for the level of competition, while fundraising efforts are underway to cover expenses, with potential support from the government and businesses.

“We want all our coaches to understand the rules and not make up their own rules. But it’s beneficial in terms of the game and its growth as well. So if the coaches understand the rules, then their team understand how to play,” he said.

Samoa Tag will gradually adopt ITF rules ahead of the World Cup, with only minor adjustments needed for local players. Cowan said he hopes to return next year before the tournament in Coffs Harbour, Australia. Discussions are also underway to include Tag sport in the 2027 Pacific Games in Tahiti.