Bluesky – Marist partnership sponsors Flag Day Invitational

Pago Pago, AMERICAN SAMOA — Bluesky last week officially announced their partnership with the Marist Pago Sports Club American Samoa as the Major Sponsor for the upcoming 5th Coca Cola Marist Pago Flag Day International Sevens 2024 Tournament, with a total value of $20,000.

The local communication company joins Naming Rights Sponsor GHC Reid in assisting this year’s event and will be the official authorized telecommunications provider for the tournament.

Scheduled for April 26-27, 2024 at the Veterans Memorial Stadium in Tafuna, the annual international sporting event will be the grand finale of this year’s festivities of the 124th Flag Day Anniversary in the Territory.

The tournament which was discontinued abruptly due to COVID -19 restrictions, was revived again last year thanks to the support of the Lemanu/Talauega administration and the American Samoa Rugby Association (ASRU).

It was welcomed back with open arms by local rugby enthusiasts and some opened their homes to host some of the visiting teams.

This year’s 5th Coca Cola Marist Pago Flag Day International Rugby Sevens Tournament promises to be bigger, better and more action-packed than ever.

According to Marist Pago Sports Club President Taupa’u Tauileave Toluono, things are looking very optimistic with Bluesy stepping up to the plate.

“We are very thankful for Bluesky’s generous assistance,” Taupa’u acknowledged. “We are confident the public will be satisfied with the talent that will be displayed in the upcoming tournament, especially with 12 off- island teams confirmed to participate.”

Ten of the 12 off-island teams that will be competing are from Samoa, with one team from Fiji and one from Hawaii. Four local teams will also be competing and all will be vying for the prestigious Governor Lemanu’s Cup.

Bluesky management in a press release stated that they are glad to contribute to Marist Pago Sports Club’s goal which is to promote the development of rugby for both men and women, and to promote tourism in American Samoa.

“This partnership signifies our dedication to fostering a vibrant sports community, promoting inclusivity, and inspiring young athletes to pursue their dreams,” it declared. “Together with Marist Pago Sports Club, we aim to empower individuals, strengthen teams, and create unforgettable moments on and off the field. Get ready to witness the power of connection and the energy of the sport coming together in an electrifying collaboration!”

The 12 off-island teams that will be participating this year include last year's champions Marist St. Joseph, Tepatasi, Apia Maroons, Tamauli, Lauli'i Lions, Afega, Moata'a, New Rock from Fiji, Marist Hawai'i, Vailele, Solosolo and Vaimoso.

According to ASRU President Falefata Moli Lemana, the four local teams will be determined by the ongoing ASRU Sevens Tournament which kicked off last Saturday at Kanana Fou field sponsored by McConnel Dowell.

Last Saturday's tournament culminated in a clash between the Barbarians and Avele which was dominated by eventual winners Barbarians.

The tournament will continue for two more Saturdays starting next week where the same teams will battle it out and the top four teams will get the chance to compete in next month's 5th Coca Cola Marist Pago Flag Day International Sevens 2024 Tournament.

The 16 teams will be divided into four pools and the draw will be finalized and revealed on Draw Night slated for 13 April where the other sponsors will be announced.