The Samoa national rugby league team represents

Samoa Samoa, officially the Independent State of Samoa; sm, Sāmoa, and until 1997 known as Western Samoa, is a Polynesian island country consisting of two main islands (Savai'i and Upolu); two smaller, inhabited islands (Manono Island, Manono an ...

rugby league Rugby league football, commonly known as just rugby league and sometimes football, footy, rugby or league, is a full-contact sport played by two teams of thirteen players on a rectangular field measuring 68 metres (75 yards) wide and 112 ...

football and has participated in international competition since 1986. Known as Western Samoa before 1997, the team is administered by

Rugby League Samoa Rugby League Samoa are the governing body for rugby league in Samoa. They are based in the capital Apia, the League has suffered financially due to member leagues not paying affiliation fees. History They were founded in 1949 and have been member ...

and are nicknamed Toa Samoa (

English English usually refers to: * English language * English people English may also refer to: Peoples, culture, and language * ''English'', an adjective for something of, from, or related to England ** English national ide ...

: ''Samoan Warriors'').

Current roster

The Samoa national team for the

2021 Rugby League World Cup The 2021 Rugby League World Cup (RLWC2021) was a collection of world cups in the sport of rugby league, held in England from 15 October to 19 November 2022. England won hosting rights for the competition on 27 October 2016. The bid received £2 ...

History

Western Samoa has participated in the Pacific Cup (1986–), World Sevens (1994, 1995, 2003),

Super League The Super League (officially known as the Betfred Super League due to sponsorship from Betfred and legally known as Super League Europe), is the top-level of the British rugby league system. At present the league consists of twelve teams, of wh ...

World Nines (1996, 1997), World Cup (since 1995) and

Pacific Rim The Pacific Rim comprises the lands around the rim of the Pacific Ocean. The ''Pacific Basin'' includes the Pacific Rim and the islands in the Pacific Ocean. The Pacific Rim roughly overlaps with the geologic Pacific Ring of Fire. List of co ...

(2004) competitions.

Early years

Western Samoa made their debut in the

1986 Pacific Cup The 1986 Pacific Cup was the 3rd Pacific Cup, a rugby league tournament held between Pacific teams. The tournament was hosted in the Cook Islands and eventually won by the New Zealand Māori side, who defeated Western Samoa in the final. Backgrou ...

. Joe Raymond coached this side to a final where they went down to a strong NZ Maori side. Joe Raymond went on to coach them again in 1988 and would return again to coach them 10 years later in 1998 in a one-off game against a Samoan team of Samoan resident players at Carlaw park. William John "Swanny" Stowers and his wife Lyndsay Stowers operated Samoa Rugby League out of their North Shore home in Auckland and from the Richmond Rugby League Club house where Lyndsay ran the canteen. This resilient couple were known to have put a mortgage on their home to assist with funding the thirty (30) men representing Samoa in the Pacific Cup held in Tonga, 1990. This commitment lead to a historical win over the Maori team for the first time and a win in the

1990 Pacific Cup The 1990 Pacific Cup was the fifth edition of the Pacific Cup, a rugby league tournament held between Pacific teams. The tournament was hosted by Tonga and eventually won by Western Samoa, who defeated New Zealand Māori 26–18 in the final, a r ...

. Coached by the Richmond Bulldogs Head Coach, Steve Aigai. Samoa then won the 1992 Pacific Cup over Tonga in an action filled thriller that went into two (2) overtimes and sent the NZ Rugby League and Polynesian rugby league public into a frenzy. The 1992 Tournament showcased all of NZ Rugby league talent and Australian Rugby league scouts were already booked to witness the 1994 Pacific Cup held in Fiji. In 1993 Western Samoa were invited to the International Coca-Cola Sevens in Sydney. With Auckland based Samoan players such as

Mark Elia Mark Wycliffe Elia (born 25 December 1962)ELIA, Mark Wycliffe 1985 - 89 - Kiwi ...

Tony Tuimavave Antonio (Tony) Emil Tuimavave is a Samoan former professional rugby league footballer who played in the 1990s and 2000s, who was the head coach of the Ponsonby Ponies from 2010, primarily as a also as a . He was nicknamed The Chief because he ...

Tony Tatupu Kuripitone "Tony" Tatupu is a former professional rugby league footballer. He played as a and in the and represented both New Zealand and Western Samoa. Tatupu is the uncle of the rugby league footballer; Matthew Wright. Playing career Tatup ...

Faausu Afoa Fa'ausu Afoa (born 29 June 1967) is a Samoan former professional rugby league footballer who played in the 1990s for the Penrith Panthers and North Harbour Sea Eagles, and for Western Samoa.''Lion Red Rugby League Annual 1994'', New Zealand Ru ...

and Des Maea followed by a group of up and coming players such as

Matthew FuaSamoa Matthew may refer to: * Matthew (given name) * Matthew (surname) * ''Matthew'' (ship), the replica of the ship sailed by John Cabot in 1497 * ''Matthew'' (album), a 2000 album by rapper Kool Keith * Matthew (elm cultivar), a cultivar of the Chi ...

Lionel Perera __TOC__ Lionel may refer to: Name * Lionel (given name) Places *Lionel, Lewis, a village in the Outer Hebrides of Scotland * Lionel Town, Jamaica, a settlement Brands and enterprises * Lionel, LLC, an American designer and importer of toy trains and ...

Aleki Maea Aleki is a given name. Notable people with the name include: * Aleki Morris-Lome (born 1994), New Zealand rugby union player * Aleki Lutui (born 1978), Tongan rugby union player See also * Alek * Alexi Alexi is a given name that is a variant or n ...

Paki Tuimavave Paki Tuimavave is a Samoan former professional rugby league footballer who played in the 1980s and 1990s. He played at representative level for Western Samoa, and at club level for Waitakere City and North Harbour, as a . Background Also see '' ...

, Joe Vagana,

Sefo Fuimaono Seyfullah Sağır (born 16 March 1998), better known as Sefo, is a Turkish pop musician and songwriter. He rose to fame in Turkey with his song "Bilmem mi?", which features reggaeton elements. Life and career Seyfullah Sağır was born on 16 March ...

and

Peter Lima Peter Lima is a Samoan former professional rugby league footballer who played in the 1990s and 2000s, representing Samoa at the 2000 World Cup. Playing career Lima played for the Auckland side in the 1993 National Provincial Competition, and ...

, the team beat the Canberra Raiders and the Great Britain International team. Coached by the Richmond Bulldogs' Head Coach Steve Aigai, this team gave Samoa the status to create the strong foundation Western Samoa Rugby League needed to move forward. Below this strong foundation however was the strength and commitment of two people: Swanny and Lyndsay Stowers. These two held together the concept of Samoa Rugby League and without their dream, Samoa RL will not be where it is today. Steve Aigai in his sixth year as the Samoan Coach had an array of NZ based quality players for the 1994 Pacific Cup with the likes of

Se'e Solomona Maseese (Se'e) David Solomona (born 9 March 1965) is a New Zealand former professional rugby league footballer who represented both New Zealand and Western Samoa. Background Solomona was born in New Zealand. Playing career Solomona started his ...

, the Tuimavave brothers Paki and

Tony Tony may refer to: People and fictional characters * Tony (given name), including a list of people and fictional characters * Gregory Tony (born 1978), American law enforcement officer * Motu Tony (born 1981), New Zealand international rugby leagu ...

plus the loyal players of Mike Setefano,

Alex Tupou Alex is a given name. It can refer to a shortened version of Alexander, Alexandra, Alexis. People Multiple *Alex Brown (disambiguation), multiple people *Alex Gordon (disambiguation), multiple people *Alex Harris (disambiguation), multiple peop ...

and Mark Faumuina.

Henry Suluvale Henry Suluvale (born 16 September 1971) is a former professional rugby league footballer who represented Samoa national rugby league team, Western Samoa at the 1995 Rugby League World Cup and also the 1995 world sevens. Suluvale played on the W ...

and

Rudy David Rudy or Rudi is a masculine given name, sometimes short for Rudolf, Rudolph, Rawad, Rudra, Ruairidh, or variations thereof, a nickname and a surname which may refer to: People Given name or nickname *Rudolf Rudy Andeweg (born 1952), Dutch polit ...

led the contingent of first class players from Canterbury however this arsenal were well contained by the Tongan stars Jim Dymock, John Hopoate, Solomon Haumono and Albert Fulivai.

Late 1990s

The 1995 Samoan team had the benefit of ex-

All Blacks The New Zealand national rugby union team, commonly known as the All Blacks ( mi, Ōpango), represents New Zealand in men's international rugby union, which is considered the country's national sport. The team won the Rugby World Cup in 1987 ...

John Schuster Nesetorio Jonny Schuster (born 17 January 1964) is a former international rugby league and rugby union player, a dual-code international. Schuster played for Marists Saint-Joseph, then six times for Samoa before leaving for New Zealand in 1 ...

and

Va'aiga Tuigamala Va'aiga Lealuga Tuigamala Pulelua Fesola'i (4 September 1969 – 24 February 2022), sometimes known as Inga Tuigamala, was a professional rugby union and rugby league footballer. Born in Samoa, he represented New Zealand in rugby union, winnin ...

in their backline. When

rugby union Rugby union, commonly known simply as rugby, is a close-contact team sport that originated at Rugby School in the first half of the 19th century. One of the two codes of rugby football, it is based on running with the ball in hand. In its m ...

went openly professional players such as

Apollo Perelini Apollo Perelini (born 16 July 1969) is a former dual-code international rugby union and rugby league footballer who played in the 1990s and 2000s, and has coached in the 2000s and 2010s. He played representative rugby union (RU) for New Zeal ...

and

Fereti Tuilagi Fereti Tuilagi (born 9 June 1971) is a Samoan former professional rugby footballer of the 1990s and 2000s. After playing rugby union at international level, he turned professional and played rugby league for English clubs Halifax Blue Sox and ...

left rugby league to return to the 15-man game. Samoa lost the Pacific Cup in 1996. The 1998 Pacific Cup team saw a new and old talent. Joe Raymond, one of the first Samoan Rugby League Rep coaches returned after coaching Tonga and the NZ Maori, the late Eddie Poching managed the team and the introduction of

Francis Meli Francis Meli (born 27 April 1979) is a former professional rugby league footballer who played in the 1990s, 2000s and 2010s. A Samoa and New Zealand international representative centre or winger, he played in the National Rugby League for New ...

to Samoan Rugby League and Junior Papalii a loyal American Samoan Representative.

Pati Tuimavave Paki Tuimavave is a Samoan former professional rugby league footballer who played in the 1980s and 1990s. He played at representative level for Western Samoa, and at club level for Waitakere City and North Harbour, as a . Background Also see '' ...

from the 1992 squad and Matthew TuiSamoa, the only survivor from 1990 Pacific Cup champion team returned. Samoa battled Tonga for the 1998 Pacific Cup again at Carlaw park and again Samoa regained the Pacific Champions Title.

2000s

The Pacific Cup was taken to Australia's Gold Coast in 2000 where Auckland coach John Ackland took over the reins. Ackland added another dimension to Samoa Rugby League in selecting rising stars Itikeri Samani a Canberra and Goulburn Stockmen Junior who previously represented American Samoa and

Wayne McDade Wayne McDade (born 1 July 1981) is a former Samoa international rugby league footballer who played as a . Background McDade was born in New Zealand. Playing career A Richmond Bulldogs junior, McDade has appeared in the NSWRL Premier League for ...

from the New Zealand Warriors while bringing back Matthew FuaSamoa into the Pacific Cup arena.

2000 Rugby League World Cup campaign

Samoa took on

Ireland Ireland ( ; ga, Éire ; Ulster Scots dialect, Ulster-Scots: ) is an island in the Atlantic Ocean, North Atlantic Ocean, in Northwestern Europe, north-western Europe. It is separated from Great Britain to its east by the North Channel (Grea ...

Scotland Scotland (, ) is a country that is part of the United Kingdom. Covering the northern third of the island of Great Britain, mainland Scotland has a border with England to the southeast and is otherwise surrounded by the Atlantic Ocean to the ...

, and the Aotearoa Māori in the 2000 Rugby League World Cup pool stages. They would lose to 'the Irish' in their opening game, but they'd beat NZ Maori, and Scotland in their next two games, sealing a place in the knock-out stages. They would take on

Australia Australia, officially the Commonwealth of Australia, is a Sovereign state, sovereign country comprising the mainland of the Australia (continent), Australian continent, the island of Tasmania, and numerous List of islands of Australia, sma ...

in the quarter-final. Unfortunately, they ended their tournament with a thrashing 66–10 defeat (their biggest defeat up to date), sealing an end to a respectable World Cup Campaign.

2008 Rugby League World Cup campaign

Samoa played in the Pacific Pool of the

2008 Rugby League World Cup Qualifiers 2008 Rugby League World Cup qualifying matches took place from April 2006 to November 2007. Of the ten teams to compete in the 2008 Rugby League World Cup, five of them qualified based on their performance in these matches. The other five teams ...

. They beat

the Cook Islands ) , image_map = Cook Islands on the globe (small islands magnified) (Polynesia centered).svg , capital = Avarua , coordinates = , largest_city = Avarua , official_languages = , lan ...

and

Fiji Fiji ( , ,; fj, Viti, ; Fiji Hindi: फ़िजी, ''Fijī''), officially the Republic of Fiji, is an island country in Melanesia, part of Oceania in the South Pacific Ocean. It lies about north-northeast of New Zealand. Fiji consists ...

, but lost to

Tonga Tonga (, ; ), officially the Kingdom of Tonga ( to, Puleʻanga Fakatuʻi ʻo Tonga), is a Polynesian country and archipelago. The country has 171 islands – of which 45 are inhabited. Its total surface area is about , scattered over in ...

. On a points difference, Samoa came in third and had to play

USA The United States of America (U.S.A. or USA), commonly known as the United States (U.S. or US) or America, is a country Continental United States, primarily located in North America. It consists of 50 U.S. state, states, a Washington, D.C., ...

in the Repecharge Semi Final. Samoa won this match 42–10 and then played

Lebanon Lebanon ( , ar, لُبْنَان, translit=lubnān, ), officially the Republic of Lebanon () or the Lebanese Republic, is a country in Western Asia. It is located between Syria to the north and east and Israel to the south, while Cyprus li ...

on 14 November 2007 in the Repecharge Final to see who would take the 10th and final World Cup place. Samoa came out eventual winners of the 10th and final

2008 Rugby League World Cup The 2008 Rugby League World Cup was the thirteenth staging of the Rugby League World Cup since its inauguration in 1954, and the first since the 2000 tournament. The tournament was held in Australia from 26 October, culminating in the final b ...

place beating

38–16 at the Chris Moyles Stadium, Featherstone. For the

tournament Samoa's main jersey sponsor was the Samoa International Finance Authority. Samoa took on

and

in the Tournament's pool stages. They beat their Pacific rivals 20–12, but they then lost to the Irish by 34–16. This big losing margin, sent the Samoans into battle against the

French French (french: français(e), link=no) may refer to: * Something of, from, or related to France ** French language, which originated in France, and its various dialects and accents ** French people, a nation and ethnic group identified with Franc ...

in the Tournament's 9th place play-off. Samoa easily won, winning 42–10 and capping off an undesirable World Cup Tournament.

2013 Pacific Rugby League Test

In April 2013, Samoa took on

in the '2013 Pacific Rugby League Test' at Penrith Stadium. The International was created as a World Cup warm-up match. Tonga targeted Samoa's weak defence, and it paid off, thrashing the Toa Samoans by 36–4.

Matt Parish era (2013– Present )

Australian

Matt Parish Matt Parish is an Australian professional rugby league football coach who is the head coach of Samoa and a former professional rugby league footballer. Playing career Parish played in 55 first-grade matches for the Balmain Tigers between 1988 ...

was appointed head coach ahead of the 2013 World Cup. In the group stage, Samoa lost to 42–24, and defeated 38–4 and 22–6. They lost the quarter-final to 22–4. In May 2014, Samoa defeated 32–16 in a one-off Test match to qualify for the 2014 Four Nations. In the Four Nations, Samoa was the fourth nation and the underdogs against rugby league's three big heavyweight nations England, New Zealand and Australia. But they proved that they were anything but underdogs, losing to England by six points in a sea-sawing battle, and they were within four minutes of creating rugby league history by beating New Zealand. By the final round, Samoa still had a chance to qualify for the final, making this Four Nations the toughest ever. This Samoan performance added credential to the rugby league game showing that the game is not all about the big three. An annual series against was proposed to run likewise to Australia's State of Origin series. In May 2015, Samoa took on

. The game was an absolute thriller with the lead alternating between the teams and the biggest margin throughout the match was only 6 points. Samoa won 18–16. The following year, in May 2016, Samoa defeated Tonga 18–12. Samoa were winless at the 2017 World Cup, losing 38–8 to and 32–18 , and drawing 14–14 with . However, due to the tournament structure, they advanced to the knock-out stage thanks to the draw. In the quarter-final, Samoa lost 46–0 to defending champions . Former rugby league players Reni Maitua and Willie Mason were heavily critical of the team after the tournament, claiming the players were staying up late at night and had no respect for coach

. In February 2021, it was reported that 34 current and former Samoan players had co-signed a letter to Samoan Prime Minister Tuilaepa Aiono Sailele Malielegaoi requesting for Parish to be removed as coach, citing a lack of professionalism and success. Parish responded by claiming the players were coerced to sign the letter. In May 2021, Andrew Johns, Matthew Johns and

Sonny Bill Williams Sonny Bill Williams (born 3 August 1985) is a New Zealand heavyweight boxer, and a former professional rugby league and rugby union player and as of recently is working for Stan Sports. He is only the List of dual-code rugby internationals#New ...

voiced interest to jointly coach Samoa at the 2021 World Cup.

affirmed Parish would remain as head coach for the tournament in a statement. NRL.com noted that Samoa has approximately 85 NRL players to choose from in 2021, more than is available for the successful n (60) and an (40) teams, however, according to reports, there are some players not willing to represent Samoa under the current coaching set-up. Siva tau 11112013

In October 2022, Samoa opened the

Rugby League World Cup 2021 Rugby may refer to: Sport * Rugby football in many forms: ** Rugby league: 13 players per side *** Masters Rugby League *** Mod league *** Rugby league nines *** Rugby league sevens *** Touch (sport) *** Wheelchair rugby league ** Rugby union: 1 ...

against host nation

England England is a country that is part of the United Kingdom. It shares land borders with Wales to its west and Scotland to its north. The Irish Sea lies northwest and the Celtic Sea to the southwest. It is separated from continental Europe b ...

, despite high expectations for Samoa, due to high profile players such as Penrith Panthers premiership winning trio Jarome Luai, Brian To'o, and

Stephen Crichton Stephen Crichton (born 22 September 2000) is a Samoan professional rugby league footballer who plays as a for the Penrith Panthers in the National Rugby League, NRL and Samoa national rugby league team, Samoa at international level. He won bot ...

pledging allegiance to Samoa over

, Samoa went on tho lose the match in embarrassing fashion, 60-6. Samoa rebounded from the loss in the competition opener with big wins over

Greece Greece,, or , romanized: ', officially the Hellenic Republic, is a country in Southeast Europe. It is situated on the southern tip of the Balkans, and is located at the crossroads of Europe, Asia, and Africa. Greece shares land borders with ...

and

France France (), officially the French Republic ( ), is a country primarily located in Western Europe. It also comprises of Overseas France, overseas regions and territories in the Americas and the Atlantic Ocean, Atlantic, Pacific Ocean, Pac ...

, 72-4 and 62-4 respectively. Samoa qualified for the finals, coming second place in their pool behind England, and went on to face rivals Mate Ma'a Tonga in the quarter finals. Samoa would go on to win the match despite a late resurgence from Tonga to win 20-18, qualifying for their first ever world cup semi final. Samoa would face England in the semi final, who they lost their first match against. In a back and forth encounter, the scores were tied at 20-20 with less than 8 minutes to go in the match but

would intercept a pass from

Victor Radley Victor Derrick Radley (born 14 March 1998) is an England international rugby league footballer who plays as a for the Sydney Roosters in the NRL. He won back-to-back NRL premierships with the Roosters in 2018 and 2019. Background Radley was ...

running more than 60 metres to score a try to put Samoa ahead. Several minutes later, with just 3 minutes left in the match, England halfback George Williams broke Samoas defence and passed to

Herbie Farnworth {{Infobox rugby league biography , name = Herbie Farnworth , fullname = Herbert Felix Farnworth , image = Herbie Farnworth.png , image_size = , position = {{rlp, CE, WG , birth_date = {{birth date and age, ...

who would complete a 90 metre long try, taking the score to 26-24. Tommy Makinson would then kick the conversion to tie the match. With the scores tied at 26-26, the match went to Golden Point, with England receiving the ball first.

Jack Welsby Jack Welsby (born 17 March 2001) is an English professional rugby league footballer who plays as a or er for St Helens in the Super League and England at international level. Background Welsby was born in Wigan, Lancashire. Playing for Shevin ...

made an error giving Samoa the ball, which would lead to an

Anthony Milford Anthony Milford (born 11 July 1994) is a Samoan international rugby league footballer who plays as a for the Dolphins in the NRL. He previously played for the Brisbane Broncos, Canberra Raiders and Newcastle Knights in the National Rugby Lea ...

field goal attempt but missed. England received the ball again but a Sam Tomkins error would give the ball back to Samoa once again and Stephen Chrichton kicked the field goal to win the match, 27-26. Sending Samoa to their first ever World Cup final against Australia, and just the fifth team to qualify for the final. (Great Britain, England, France, New Zealand)

Competitive Record

All-time record

Below is the head-to-head record for the Samoa as of 24 December 2020.

World Cup

Four Nations

Pacific Cup

Notable players and coaches

* John Ackland (World Cup 2008 Coach) *

Steve Kaiser Steve Kaiser is an American politician. He was a Republican member of the Arizona Senate in 2023. He previously served as state representative in Arizona's 15th district. He was elected to the seat after incumbent Republican John Allen decided ...

Coach 1990–1994 *

1986 *

Afi Ah Kuoi AFI may refer to: * ''Address-family identifier'', a 16 bit field of the Routing Information Protocol * Ashton Fletcher Irwin, an Australian drummer * AFI (band), an American rock band ** ''AFI'' (2004 album), a retrospective album by AFI rele ...

1986 *

Andrew Ah Kuoi Andrew is the English form of a given name common in many countries. In the 1990s, it was among the top ten most popular names given to boys in English-speaking countries. "Andrew" is frequently shortened to "Andy" or "Drew". The word is derived ...

1986 *

George Apelu George may refer to: People * George (given name) * George (surname) * George (singer), American-Canadian singer George Nozuka, known by the mononym George * George Washington, First President of the United States * George W. Bush, 43rd President ...

1986 *

Fa'ausu Afoa Fa'ausu Afoa (born 29 June 1967) is a Samoan former professional rugby league footballer who played in the 1990s for the Penrith Panthers and North Harbour Sea Eagles, and for Western Samoa.''Lion Red Rugby League Annual 1994'', New Zealand Ru ...

circa-1995 *

Wing Afoa A wing is a type of fin that produces lift while moving through air or some other fluid. Accordingly, wings have streamlined cross-sections that are subject to aerodynamic forces and act as airfoils. A wing's aerodynamic efficiency is expresse ...

1990–1994 *

Isaak Ah Mau Isaak Ah Mau (born 25 November 1982) is a former Samoa international rugby league footballer who played as a for the North Queensland Cowboys and the Brisbane Broncos in the NRL. Background Ah Mau was born in Auckland, New Zealand. He is the ...

circa-2006 *

Leeson Ah Mau Leeson Ah Mau (born 20 December 1989) is a former professional rugby league footballer, who has represented both Samoa and New Zealand at international level. He previously played for the Warriors, North Queensland Cowboys and the St George Il ...

2013-17 *

Roy Asotasi Roy Asotasi (born 6 January 1982) is a former professional rugby league footballer who played as a in the 2000s and 2010s. A New Zealand international captain, he also played for Samoa. Asotasi played in the NRL for Australian clubs Canterbury ...

circa-2013 * Monty Betham circa-2000 *

George Carmont George Carmont (born 30 June 1978), also known by the nickname of "Chicken George" or "Gorgeous George", is a former Samoa international rugby league footballer who played as a for the Newcastle Knights in the National Rugby League (NRL) and t ...

circa-2008 *

Victors Charles Charlie The name Victor or Viktor may refer to: * Victor (name), including a list of people with the given name, mononym, or surname Arts and entertainment Film * ''Victor'' (1951 film), a French drama film * ''Victor'' (1993 film), a French shor ...

circa-2008 *

Mark Elia Mark Wycliffe Elia (born 25 December 1962)ELIA, Mark Wycliffe 1985 - 89 - Kiwi ...

circa-1995 *

Henry Fa'afili Henry Fa'afili (born 30 May 1980) is a Samoan-born New Zealand former professional rugby league and rugby union footballer who played in the 1990s, 2000s and 2010s. He played representative rugby league (RL) for New Zealand Secondary Schools, t ...

circa-2000 *

David Faiumu David Faiumu (born 30 April 1983) is a former professional rugby league footballer who last played for the Huddersfield Giants in the Super League. A Samoa and New Zealand international representative forward, he previously played in the Natio ...

circa-2008 *

Max Fala Max Fala is a Samoan rugby league footballer who represented Saoma at the 2000 World Cup. Playing career A Northcote Tigers player in the Auckland Rugby League competition, Fala was selected for the Samoa Samoa, officially the Independe ...

circa-2000 *

Maika Felise Maika Felise is a Samoan former professional rugby league footballer who played in the 1990s and 2000s. He represented Samoa in the 2000 World Cup. Playing career Felise played for Wainuiomata Lions in the Wellington Rugby League competition, ...

circa-2000 *

Beau Gallagher Beau Gallagher (born 12 September 1977) is a Samoan former professional rugby league footballer who played in the 1990s and 2000s. He represented Samoa Samoa, officially the Independent State of Samoa; sm, Sāmoa, and until 1997 known a ...

circa-2000 *

Joe Galuvao Joe Galuvao (born 8 July 1978) is a former professional rugby league footballer who played in the 1990s, 2000s and 2010s in the NRL. A Samoa and New Zealand international second row forward, he played for the Auckland Warriors, Parramatta Eel ...

circa-2000 *

Simon Geros Simon Geros is a Samoan former professional rugby league footballer who played in the 1990s, 2000s and 2010s who represented Samoa in the 2000 World Cup. Playing career Geros played for the Burleigh Bears when in 2000 he was selected for Samo ...

circa-2000 *

Harrison Hansen Harrison Luther Mata'afa Hansen (born 26 October 1985) is a professional rugby league footballer who plays as a and for Toulouse Olympique in the Betfred Championship. He has played for Samoa and New Zealand at international level. He has al ...

circa-2008 * Sam Kasiano circa-2015 *

Lolani Koko Lolani Koko is a Samoan former rugby union and rugby league footballer who played in the 1980s and 1990s. He played representative rugby union for Samoa and representative rugby league for Western Samoa, including at the 1995 Rugby League World C ...

circa-1995 *

Vae Kololo Faávae Kololo is a former Samoa international rugby league footballer. Playing career he was not a girl he was not successful Success is the state or condition of meeting a defined range of expectations. It may be viewed as the opposite ...

circa-2000 *

Shane Laloata Shane Laloata (born 8 December 1977) is a professional rugby football player. He represented Samoa in rugby league. Rugby League career Playing career In 1999 Laloata was with the Newcastle Knights, and played in the NSWRL Premier League. He th ...

circa-2000 *

Ali Lauiti'iti Alaimatagi "Ali" Lauitiiti (born 13 July 1979) is a former professional rugby league footballer who played in the 1990s, 2000s and 2010s, as a . Both a Samoa and New Zealand international representative forward, Lauitiiti played for the New Ze ...

circa-2008 *

Brian Laumatia Brian Laumatia is a former professional rugby league footballer who played for the Cronulla Sharks in the Super League in Australia. Playing career In 1994 he played for the Counties Manukau Heroes in the Lion Red Cup, and represented Auckland ...

circa-1995 *

Mark Leafa Mark Vaiao (formerly Mark Leafa) (born 4 December 1980) is a former Samoa international rugby league footballer who played as a or in the 1990s and 2000s. He played at club level for the Otahuhu Leopards (junior), Canterbury Bulldogs, Sydne ...

circa-2000 * Brian Leauma circa-2000 *

Tuaalagi Lepupa Tuaalagi Lepupa is a Samoan rugby football international who has represented Samoa in both rugby league and rugby sevens, most notably at the 2008 Rugby League World Cup. Lepupa plays as a or . Playing career From the Marist Saints club in Sam ...

circa-2008 *

Kylie Leuluai Kylie Leuluai (born 29 March 1978) is a New Zealand former professional rugby league footballer. A New Zealand Māori and Samoa international representative , he most notably played at club level for the Leeds Rhinos in the Super League. He a ...

circa-2008 * Danny Lima circa-2006 *

Jeff Lima Jeff Lima (born 4 July 1982) is a former professional rugby league footballer who last played for the Canberra Raiders in the NRL. A New Zealand international representative , he previously played for the Wests Tigers, Melbourne Storm, South S ...

circa-2006 *

Jamahl Lolesi Jamahl Lolesi (born 20 March 1981) is a New Zealand former professional rugby league footballer who played in the 2000s and 2010s. A New Zealand and Samoa international representative or , he had previously played for the Wests Tigers, Canterb ...

circa-2000 * Graham Lowe (World Cup 1995 coach) *

Chan Ly Chan may refer to: Places *Chan (commune), Cambodia *Chan Lake, by Chan Lake Territorial Park in Northwest Territories, Canada People *Chan (surname), romanization of various Chinese surnames (including 陳, 曾, 詹, 戰, and 田) *Chan Caldwel ...

circa-2006 * Des Maea circa-1995 *

Hutch Maiava Hutch Maiava (born 26 October 1976) is a New Zealand former professional rugby league footballer who played for the Cronulla-Sutherland Sharks in the NRL as a . He previously played for the Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs and Hull F.C. Playing ...

circa-2006 *

Gus Maietoa-Brown Gus Mailetoa-Brown (born 28 July 1975) is a former Western Samoa international rugby league footballer. Playing career A Manurewa and Papakura junior, Mailetoa-Brown first attracted interest from the Brisbane Broncos. However, by 1994 he was pla ...

circa-1995 *

Vila Matautia Vila Matautia is a Samoan former professional rugby league footballer who played in the 1990s and 2000s. He was a Samoan international and played at the 1995 Rugby League World Cup. He also played with St Helens in the Super League, having cham ...

circa-1995 * Rusty Matua 1990 *

Chris Magele Chris is a short form of various names including Christopher, Christian, Christina, Christine, and Christos. Chris is also used as a name in its own right, however it is not as common. People with the given name *Chris Abani (born 1966), Nige ...

1998–2000 *

circa-2008 *

Robert Moimoi The name Robert is an ancient Germanic given name, from Proto-Germanic "fame" and "bright" (''Hrōþiberhtaz''). Compare Old Dutch ''Robrecht'' and Old High German ''Hrodebert'' (a compound of '' Hruod'' ( non, Hróðr) "fame, glory, honou ...

1986 *

circa-2000/2008 *

Laloa Milford Laloaoa Milford is a Samoan former professional rugby league and rugby union footballer who played in the 1990s and 2000s. He most recently played rugby union for the Santa Monica Rugby Club. He was hired as the head coach for the University o ...

circa-2000 *

Paul Okesene Paul Okesene () (14 November 1967 – 15 September 2012) was a Samoan rugby league footballer who represented both Western Samoa and American Samoa. Background His brother, Hitro, also played international rugby league. Playing career A Manuka ...

1986 * Lafu Papalii 1986–1990 *

Junior Purcell Junior or Juniors may refer to: Arts and entertainment Music * ''Junior'' (Junior Mance album), 1959 * ''Junior'' (Röyksopp album), 2009 * ''Junior'' (Kaki King album), 2010 * ''Junior'' (LaFontaines album), 2019 Films * ''Junior'' (1994 ...

1998 *

Sam Panapa Samuel Lameko Panapa is a New Zealand former professional rugby league footballer who played in the 1980s and 1990s. He represented three countries in his career: Tokelau, New Zealand and Western Samoa. Panapa played his club football in Aucklan ...

circa-1995 *

(World Cup 2013 coach) & (World Cup 2017 coach) & (World Cup 2021/22 coach) *

Joseph Paulo Joseph Paulo (born 2 January 1988) is a former professional rugby league footballer who last played as a and for Toulouse Olympique in the Betfred Championship. He has played for both Samoa and the United States at international level. He pr ...

circa-2008 *

circa-1995 *

Fred Petersen Frederick or Fred Petersen may refer to: * Frederick Petersen (1874–1946), American physiotherapist and politician * Fred Petersen (rugby league) (born 1978), Samoan rugby player *Fred A. Petersen Fred A. Petersen (1808-1885) was an American a ...

circa-2000 *

Robert Piva Robert Piva (born 4 November 1966) is a former New Zealand international rugby league footballer who played in the 1980s and 1990s. A forward, Piva played for Wakefield Trinity and was a foundation player for the North Queensland Cowboys. Pla ...

circa-1995 *

Willie Poching Willie Poching is a New Zealand professional rugby league football coach and former player. He is the former head-coach of Wakefield Trinity in the Super League. When he was appointed head coach of Wakefield, he became the first Samoan head coa ...

circa-1995/2000 (World Cup 2000 Captain) * Steve Price Coach 2010–2013 *

Frank Pritchard Frank Semu Pritchard (born 3 November 1983), also known by the nicknames "Cranky" and "Frank the Tank", is a former professional rugby league footballer who represented New Zealand and Samoa at international level. A , he played in the Nationa ...

circa-2014/2017 (World Cup 2017 Captain) *

Frank Puletua Frank Puletua (born 8 May 1978) is a former Samoa international rugby league footballer who played in the 1990s, 2000s and 2010s. A , he played his club football in the National Rugby League for Australian clubs the Penrith Panthers and the Sout ...

circa-2000/2008 *

Tony Puletua Anthony Puletua (born 25 June 1979), also known by the nickname of "TP", is a former professional rugby league footballer who last played for the Hull Kingston Rovers in the Super League. A New Zealand and Samoan international, Puletua previou ...

circa-2008/2013 * Ben Roberts circa-2008/2013/2014 *

Tangi Ropati Tangi Ropati (born November 15, 1984) is a former Samoa national rugby league team, Samoa international rugby league footballer who plays for the Marist Saints in the Fox Memorial. He usually plays as a or . Background Ropati was born in New Z ...

circa-2008 *

Tea Ropati Tea Faa'tea Ropati (born 7 September 1964) is a former professional rugby league footballer who represented New Zealand and Western Samoa. Background Ropati was born in Auckland, New Zealand. Ropati is a member of the large Ropati rugby leagu ...

circa-1995 *

Smith Samau Smith Samau (born 15 June 1986) is a former Samoa international rugby league footballer who plays for the Central Queensland Capras in the Queensland Cup. Background Samau was born in New Zealand. He grew up in Brisbane, Queensland and was edu ...

circa-2008 * Itikeri Samani circa-2008 *

circa-1995 (World Cup 1995 Captain) * Mike Setefano circa-1995 *

Dave Sefuufa Dave may refer to: Film, television, and theater * ''Dave'' (film), a 1993 film starring Kevin Kline and Sigourney Weaver * ''Dave'' (musical), a 2018 stage musical adaptation of the film * Dave (TV channel), a digital television channel in the ...

1986 *

Lagi Setu Lagi Setu (born 25 February 1988) is a Samoa international rugby league footballer. In rugby league he primarily plays or . Early life Born in Auckland, New Zealand. Setus’ family moved to Ipswich, Queensland, where he was educated at Ipswi ...

circa-2008 *

Jerry Seu Seu Jerry Seuseu (born 19 April 1974) is a New Zealand former professional rugby league footballer who played in the 1990s and 2000s, as a . He represented New Zealand and Samoa at international level. After retirement he became Wellbeing and Educa ...

circa-2000 *

Terrence Seu Seu Terence Seu Seu (born 20 November 1987) is a New Zealand former rugby league footballer who last played as a in the Newcastle Rugby League competition. He had previously played in the National Rugby League for the Newcastle Knights, the Cronul ...

circa-2008 *

Iosia Soliola Iosia Soliola (born 4 August 1986) is a former professional rugby league footballer who last played for the Canberra Raiders in the National Rugby League (NRL). He played for New Zealand and Samoa at international level. He previously played as ...

circa-2013 (World Cup 2013 Captain) *

David Solomona David Joseph Solomona (born 26 January 1978) is a former professional rugby league footballer, who last played for the Warrington Wolves in the Super League. He was regularly amongst the top off-loaders in the competition. Background Solomona ...

circa-2000/2008 *

Malo Solomona Malofou Solomona (born 10 May 1987) is a former Samoa international rugby league footballer who plays on the for the Point Chevalier Pirates in the Auckland Rugby League. Background Solomona was born in Auckland, New Zealand. He is of Samoa ...

circa-2006 *

circa-1995 *

Fou Solomona Fou may refer to: People * Fou Fonoti (born 1991), American football player * Fou Ts'ong (born 1934), Chinese pianist * Pama Fou (born 1990), Australian rugby union player Other uses * Fou (instrument) (缻), an ancient Chinese percussion ins ...

1986 *

Miguel Start Miguel Start (born 30 November 1987) is a former Samoa international rugby league footballer who played as a . Background Start was born in Auckland, New Zealand. Playing career Start was educated at Mount Albert Grammar School, and played for ...

circa-2006 *

Shannon Stowers Shannon Stowers is a former Samoa international rugby league footballer who played as a for the Auckland Lions in the NSWRL Premier League competition. Playing career Stowers played for the Hibiscus Coast Raiders in the 2002 Bartercard Cup. ...

circa-2006 *

circa-1995 *

Anthony Swann Anthony Gilbert Swann (born 27 March 1975) is a former professional rugby league footballer who represented both New Zealand and Samoa in international rugby league. Background He was educated at Liston College, Henderson. Playing career Swa ...

circa-2000 *

Willie Swann Willie Swann (born 1974) is a New Zealand former professional rugby league footballer and coach of Samoan heritage. He currently coaches the Auckland Vulcans in the New South Wales Cup. He is a former Samoa international and vice-captain. He a ...

circa-1995/2000 * Keneti Taogaga 1986–1990 *

Willie Talau Viliamu "Willie" Talau (born 25 January 1976) is a former professional rugby league footballer who played in the 1990s and 2000s. A Samoa national rugby league team, Samoa and New Zealand national rugby league team, New Zealand international rep ...

circa-2008 * Albert "Alby" Talipeau circa-2000/2008 *

circa-1995/2000 *

McConkie Tauasa McConkie Tauasa is a former Samoa international rugby league footballer who played as a or on the . He played for the Windsor Wolves in the New South Wales Cup and was contracted to the Penrith Panthers in the NRL The National Rugby Le ...

circa-2006 *

Misi Taulapapa Misi Taulapapa (born 25 January 1982) is a Samoa international rugby league footballer who plays as a or er for Doncaster in Betfred League 1. He has previously played for the New Zealand Warriors and the Cronulla Sharks in the NRL, and the ...

circa-2008 *

Ben Te'o Ben Te'o (born 27 January 1987) is a former profesional rugby union and rugby league footballer who last played as a er for the Brisbane Broncos in the NRL. He previously played for both the Wests Tigers and the South Sydney Rabbitohs with wh ...

circa-2008 *

Junior Tia-Kilifi Junior Tia-Kilifi (JTK) (born 24 April 1988) is a Samoa international former professional rugby league footballer who played in the 2000s and 2010s for the Penrith Panthers and the Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs in the National Rugby League. T ...

circa-2006 *

1990–1994 *

circa-1995 *

Paddy Tuimavave Paddy Tuimavave is a former professional rugby league footballer who played as a in the 1980s and 1990s and represented both New Zealand and Western Samoa. Background He is related to Evarn and Tony, who have both also played for the New Zea ...

circa-1992 *

circa-1990s *

1990–1995 *

Matthew TuiSamoa Matthew Tuisamoa is a former Western Samoa international rugby league footballer. Playing career Tuisamoa played for Auckland in 1991 and 1992.Lion Red Rugby League Annual 1991 ''New Zealand Rugby League'', 1991. p.p.133-146 In 1994 he played f ...

1990–2000 *

Tupu Ulufale Tupu Ulufale (born 10 May 1987) is a Samoan rugby league footballer who represented Samoa in the 2008 World Cup. Playing career He is from the Marist Saints club in Samoa and was the club's MVP in 2008. In 2010 he was one of five domestic playe ...

circa-2008 *

Matt Utai Matthew Utai (born 25 May 1981) is a former professional rugby league footballer who last played as a er for the Auburn Warriors in the Ron Massey Cup. A New Zealand and Samoa international representative, he previously played for the Wests Tig ...

circa-2008 * Earl Va'a circa-1995 *

Chris Vaefaga Chris Vaefaga (born 1 November 1987) is a New Zealand professional rugby league footballer for the Bulldogs in the National Rugby League. He plays at or . He is a Samoa international. Background Chris Vaefaga was born in Auckland Auckla ...

circa-2006 * Joe Vagana circa-1995 *

Nigel Vagana Nigel Faletoese Vagana (born 7 February 1975), also known by the nicknames of "Pablo", and "Chiko", is a former professional rugby league footballer who played in the 1990s and 2000s, as a and . A New Zealand national rugby league team, New Z ...

circa-1995/2008 (World Cup 2008 Captain) * Gray Viane circa-2006 * Darrell Williams (World Cup 2000 coach) * Vincent Winterstein 1990–1994 * Frank Winterstein circa-2006 *

Joe Raymond Joe or JOE may refer to: Arts Film and television * ''Joe'' (1970 film), starring Peter Boyle * ''Joe'' (2013 film), starring Nicolas Cage * ''Joe'' (TV series), a British TV series airing from 1966 to 1971 * ''Joe'', a 2002 Canadian animated ...

Coach 1986 Pacific Cup & 1988

Kit

Samoa's kit consists of a blue jersey with usually a white V on the chest, paired with blue shorts and socks.

Kit suppliers

Since 2021, Samoa's kits are currently supplied by

Classic Sportswear Classic Sportswear, also simply known as Classic, is an Australian sports clothing manufacturer. The company was founded in Sydney in 1934, making them one of the oldest family owned sports clothing companies in Australia. Classic Sportswear man ...

. Former suppliers were

FI-TA FI-TA is an Australian manufacturing company established in 2010 by Acline Sports, in the Sydney suburb of Marrickville, New South Wales. The company produces and supplies sportswear for cricket, rugby league, and field hockey teams, as well as ...

(2013-2021), SAS (2006–2013), SportM (1995–2000), Zeus (1992–1995) and Adidas (1990–1992).

References

External links

Official site of Rugby League Samoa
{{DEFAULTSORT:Samoa National Rugby League Team Men's sport in Samoa National rugby league teams Rugby league in Samoa Rugby League Four Nations Pacific Rugby League International

Current roster

History

Early years

Late 1990s

2000s

2000 Rugby League World Cup campaign

2008 Rugby League World Cup campaign

2013 Pacific Rugby League Test

Matt Parish era (2013– Present )

Competitive Record

All-time record

World Cup

Four Nations

Pacific Cup

Notable players and coaches

Kit

Kit suppliers

Sponsors

See also

References

External links