The Samoa Association of Sports and the National Olympic Committee challenged the 46 athletes to the Palau 2025 Pacific Mini Games to bring 49 medals amidst financial challenges.

President Tuaopepe Jerry Wallwork said they only received $168,000 from the government to assist with their preparations. However, it is nowhere near the needed amount to take the athletes to Palau for the Mini Games.

Chef de Mission, Leiataualesa Jerry Brunt, the cost for airfares only is more than $400,000. 

"We were able to land some great deals for $6,400 per person. Cost changes almost every week, some costs more than this. The only aircraft that are allowed to land in Palau are Qantas, China Air, and United Air. But I want to acknowledge the assistance from New Zealand and Australia in making it easy for us to get visas," he said. 

"The cost does not include these uniforms and also our per diem that is paid to the host nation." 

There are 12 sports in the Mini Games, and Samoa is participating in nine. These sports are archery, athletics, basketball (3x3), beach volleyball, swimming, triathlon, vaa (v1), weightlifting and wrestling. 

Tuaopepe also confirmed that they have put aside insurance funds for athletes, and every athlete has undergone a medical screening.

"We are taking the best of the best. We are trying to live within our means. Due to the financial challenges that we faced, we tried to select and meet the criteria of whoever received a medal would qualify for this Palau," he said. 

"Our expenses exceed the funds that we have. We already gave them the challenge, so we are hopeful. Our team are all fit and healthy. The 49 medals that we challenged them to get, is not impossible for them to get. I believe they will get them all," said Tuaopepe.

One of the athletes who was selected to be part of the basketball team was pulled out on Tuesday morning due to a visa application however they were able to find his replacement. With the challenge they have given the athletes, there is no clear answer on whether there will be any compensation from Government for any medalist.

"That is one question that we should ask the Government, as you can see our organisation do not have any funds. We are pulling it from our pockets, and from the assistance we get from here and there. But in terms of compensation for our athletes, it is something that should have been done a long time ago. As you've all know the last Pacific Games, the medalist still haven't received their compensation and it seems that it has already been forgotten by them. That question should be asked straight to our Government, because not only are you asking but also the parents of the athletes," said Tuaopepe.

The conference room was filled with athletes, officials and family members of athletes. The Minister of Sports and Recreation, Laumatiamanu Ringo Purcell wished Team Samoa the best of luck as they journey to Palau to represent Samoa in the Palau 2025 Pacific Mini Games. He also reminded the athletes, whether win or lose always keep in mind that they will be carrying their country's name. 

It was also announced that Johnny Key of the Athletics Samoa team will be the flag bearer for Samoa. The first group is set to fly out on Sunday.