A trip to Fiji to compete in a regional school boxing competition has hit a roadblock with the Independent Boxing Samoa Incorporated needing $50,000 to cover all costs.

IBS President, Tavui Mike Lemisio said they received assistance from SASNOC and the Ministry of Sports and Recreation. However, it is not enough to cater for the needs of the young boxers representing Samoa. 

"We need at least $50,000 to help with our preparations. The help we received isn't enough to cover travel expenses, meals, accommodations and other needs. The cost of the airfares will be more than $30,000. We've paid 40 per cent of the airfares, but there is still a need for funds to help us with the accommodation and other expenses," he said.

IBS has selected 13 students from schools and the National University of Samoa. All these students competed in the recent Samoa Inter-school boxing competition.

The eight students competing in the Under 17 category are Johnsal Semi (Aana 2 College), Mike Vui (Don Bosco), Oliva Lama (Avele College), Semiueta Malaki (Don Bosco), Daniel Alofipo (Church College of Pesega), Wells Matua (Leifiifi College), Feagaiga Taavao (Leifiifi College), and Joe Irae (Leifiifi College).

Five will be representing Samoa in the Under 19 division, they are, Darius Poulava (NUS), Pelasio Roache (Aana 2 College), Titi Faasavalu (Aana 2 College), Achilliespaul Taavao (NUS), and Uaita Poutoa (Tuasivi College). 

This will be the travelling team along with manager Twayne Laumua, assistant manager Vaaelua Rudy Roebeck, two coaches Leuatea James Schmidt and Vensel Margrath, a prayer maker Bishop Kent Alofipo, referee and judge Tuala Sanele Lotu, technical advisor Faumuina Toaletai David Tua, and referee and judges, Tapulolou Opeta Taaval and Irae Mose Simi.