Manu Samoa team manager Su’a Hesed Ieremia has acknowledged there have been concerns within the squad following the controversy surrounding Lakapi Samoa, but said management has addressed them through constant communication, online monitoring and direct engagement with players.
The controversy follows moves by former Lakapi Samoa members to establish a separate rugby union, prompting talks involving the new group, Prime Minister La’aulialemalietoa Leuatea Schmidt, and the current Lakapi Samoa administration.
Responding to questions from the Samoa Observer, Su’a said Manu Samoa belongs to the people of Samoa, and any issue affecting supporters and the rugby community on-island is also felt by the team.
“Amongst Samoa, it’s the people’s team, and everyone is of course affected with whatever happens back home, or with our supporters,” he said. Su’a said the team’s approach has been guided by “trust, transparency and good communication.”
He said that since the issue arose, management has been in constant contact with the team’s core leadership group, including captain Theo McFarland, Moana Pasifika captain Miracle Fai’ilagi, and other senior players.
