Roger Tuivasa-Sheck, the fullback for Toa Samoa, remains optimistic about the future of the team despite their recent loss in the Pacific Championships Cup final against New Zealand. The Samoan side started strong, leading 12-0 in the first half, but ultimately fell short as the Kiwis secured their second title in this prestigious tournament.
Reflecting on the match, Tuivasa-Sheck stressed the importance of not allowing a single moment to overshadow their journey. Citing teammate Josh Papalii, he conveyed that the team’s focus should remain on the long-term vision for Toa Samoa. He acknowledged the overwhelming support from fans and the wider community, emphasizing that this backing has significantly influenced their progress.
The Pacific Championships highlighted the depth and dedication of the Samoan team, inspiring Tuivasa-Sheck. He expressed confidence in the future, noting the addition of talented players and the commitment of the coaching staff. “Our team is building each year… The fans are right behind us, so there’s no reason for us not to go out and do something special for Samoa in the World Cup,” he said, underscoring the team’s ambition for the upcoming Rugby League World Cup in Australia and Papua New Guinea.
The excitement surrounding the team is reflected in the impressive turnout at the Championships, which welcomed over 158,000 attendees in major cities. Tuivasa-Sheck highlighted the sold-out stadiums as evidence of the growing interest and support for rugby league in the region.
Looking ahead, the commitment of star prop Payne Haas and Origin fullback Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow to represent Toa Samoa next year adds to the team’s strength. Their involvement, combined with the rising talents of young players eager to learn from seasoned veterans, bolsters Tuivasa-Sheck’s belief that Samoa is on the brink of achieving significant milestones on the international stage.
As the younger players prepare to apply what they’ve learned, Tuivasa-Sheck noted that their hunger for success is palpable. This determination, shared by players and fans alike, sets the stage for what promises to be an exciting World Cup, potentially marking a defining moment in Samoan rugby league history.