Leulumoega Fou College’s Under 17 rugby team has returned from a tournament held in Wallis and Futuna victorious. 

The school represented Samoa in a one-week tournament involving Fiji, Wallis and Futuna and New Caledonia. 

Leulumoega Fou went through the competition undefeated, overcoming Fiji in the final.

On Tuesday, the school celebrated their team’s victory at the Faleolo International Airport. 

The players were treated as heroes when they arrived where students, teachers, parents and supporters offered thanksgiving.

Captain Reupena Sevealii, 17, of Fasito’o-tai, said it was a proud moment to return to a jubilant school and such an uplifting welcome.

 “We owe everything to God because without his love and protection we wouldn’t have come this far,” he said.

“It was a tough competition but I thank God that we were able to hold on and come away with victory.” 

Seveali’i said the key to victory was their preparations prior to the tournament. He said they trained extremely hard and their focus was on fitness.

Their game plan was to control the game and keep their discipline at all times.

“We were also well supported with prayers,” he said.

“I want to acknowledge our coaches for their hard work and words of encouragement that kept us going when things got difficult.”

The captain said their coach motivated them to do well.

 “I remembered our coach saying… this is your time, don’t waste it but keep moving forward.” 

“Remember that your talents are from God so use it wisely to get something good out of it.”

Now coming back with the victory, Sevealii wanted to thank all their supporters from the Principal, teachers, students, parents and families of their school.

Asked what message he would like to give to other rugby players, he said: “Never give up, train hard and believe you can do it. Anything is possible if you work hard and trust God.”