S.R.U. Board member criticises decision

By Joyetter Feagaimaali’i-Luamanu 30 September 2018, 12:00AM

Seumanu Douglas Ngau Chun says the decision to hire Steve Jackson as the Manu Samoa’s new head coach was not endorsed by the Samoa Rugby Union Board. 

Seumanu, who sat on the interview panel when the recruitment process started, expressed his frustration with the decision of the S.R.U. to announce the selection of New Zealander Steve Jackson without the vetting of the Board members.  

His frustration was highlighted in a letter sent to the S.R.U. Chief Executive Officer, Faleomavaega Vincent Fepulea’i and he joins the S.R.U. president Namulauulu Sami Leota, who went public with his disappointment recently

“As a panel member of the interview for Manu Samoa head coach, I am disappointed in the manner you handled the final stages of the recruitment and selection process. 

“I emailed and advised you copying Tuiloma (Sina Retzlaff S.R.U. Board Member) to make sure to seek the directors’ approval and blessing of our recommendation. 

“I was waiting for a meeting or circulation as per usual practice. However, I am surprised yesterday afternoon when the press release was issued with regards to the appointment of Manu Samoa Head Coach,” he said.

Seumanu has questioned the decision of the C.E.O. to officially announce the decision by the panel prior to the S.R.U. Board giving its approval. 

“I am disappointed to note your email earlier stating that the Board approved that whatever recommendation given by the panel on the outcome of interview during our meeting on the 12 September. 

“Please note the Board never had a resolution to approve. The only thing we discussed is whatever the outcome of the interview, the Board has to respect the decision. 

“We are still yet to meet and approve our recommendation as a panel. I am disappointed our work of 18 hours wasn’t presented to the Board for consideration,” he added.

Seumanu said the decision by Faleomavaega to make the announcement raises questions about the relevance of the S.R.U. Board.

“I am starting to wonder if our Board is of any relevance. We went through a major review of our constitution and elected and appointed new representatives of the Board and yet S.R.U. didn’t even acknowledge this major achievement. Faleomavaega, I ask that you respect the Board and its respective members who were elected to govern.” 

Faleomavaega has not responded to phone calls, emails and text messages from the Samoa Observer. 

Steve Jackson replaces Fuimaono Titimaea Tafua as the Manu Samoa head coach.

By Joyetter Feagaimaali’i-Luamanu 30 September 2018, 12:00AM
Samoa Observer

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