The Tifamoana Samoa national netball team have put in a strong start to the PacificAus Sports Netball Series 2023 with two wins against Fiji and Papua New Guinea.
Samoa secured a first series match victory over Fiji by 66-48 followed by a 64-55 win against PNG.
“Thank you to our sisters from Fiji and PNGÂ for such powerful and intense games. Always a nail biting and heart racing game against our Pacific neighbours.”
Tifamoana then faced Malawi, currently ranked 6th in the world, and recorded their first loss of the series by 57-39.
The team consists of 15 players and the only local player from Samoa is Sayonara Alaalatoa of Marist Samoa Netball. At 16, she is also the youngest player in the Samoa squad.
The Tifamoana National Netball Team long squad list for the PacificAus Sports Netball Series.
1. Abigail Latu – Meafou
2. Ariana Luamanu
3. Armani Apelu
4. Bryah Gafa
5. Fiapalagi Laikong
6. Gardenia Asiata
7. Jessica Laga’aia
8. Kara Adrole
9. Lenora Misa
10. Papi Alaalatoa
11. Sayonara Alaalatoa
12. Sheridan Stowers
13. Sisavaii Muliaga
14. Sopolemalama Tuitama – Alsop
15. Winnie Palamo
Head Coach – Frances Solia
Assistant Coach – Paula Stuart
Technical Advisor – Gail Parata
Physiotherapist – Holly Boyd
According to the Australian High Commission in Samoa the tournament will mark the third edition of the PacificAus Sports Netball series, featuring eight teams competing for the top spot.
“This year, the competition will welcome African nations Kenya, Malawi and Zambia for the first time, joining returning teams Fiji, Papua New Guinea, Samoa, Singapore and Tonga.”
Through PacificAus Sports, Australia is proud to provide opportunities for Pacific athletes to learn, grow and compete together.
