KEYNOTE ADDRESS by the Hon. Laumatiamanu Mathew Ringo Purcell, Minister of Sports and Recreation [Aso Toonai 29 Mati 2025]
Lau Susuga Auali’itia Arona – of the Baha’i Faith,
Leota Josh Lutu – Chairman of the Samoa Outrigger Canoe Association & The Executive Committee of SOCA,
Seagles Patrons: Lemalu Nynette Sass, Maiava Collin McCarthy, and
Tauvaga Farani
Seagles President: Auali’itia Leata, Executive Committee and Members of the Seagles Outrigger Canoe Club,
Board member of Samoa Waste Recycling Management Association
Board (SWARMA) – Marina Keil,
CEO of SASNOC – Tuala Mathew Vaea
Esteemed Presidents of Paddling Clubs & Members of the Paddling
Community,
Distinguished guests,
Ladies and Gentlemen.
Talofa lava and warm Pacific greetings,
Before we begin this special occasion, I would like to extend my gratitude to Auali’itia Arona for graciously delivering the opening prayer and blessing of the canoes. Your presence and spiritual guidance set the tone for this meaningful event, reminding us of the deep cultural and spiritual connections that underpin our gathering today. Thank you for leading us in this important tradition.
It is both a pleasure and a privilege to join you all for this special occasion, the blessing of the Seagles Outrigger Canoe Club Samoa. Today’s gathering is more than a ceremonial event; it is a celebration of perseverance, culture, and the shared spirit that binds our paddling community together.
Outrigger canoeing is not just a sport. It is a living expression of our Samoan heritage. For generations, our ancestors mastered the ocean, navigating vast distances with courage, knowledge, and an unbreakable connection to the sea. Canoeing carries that legacy forward. It teaches our people to move with purpose, to work in unity, and to respect the environment that sustains us.
What makes this sport truly special is its inclusivity. Paddling is for everyone, from our energetic juniors to our experienced masters. It brings together communities, families, and people of all backgrounds. Whether you are new to the sport or a seasoned competitor, there is a place for you in a va’a.
I acknowledge the hard work and dedication of the Seagles Club and all paddling clubs across Samoa. Your collective effort ensures the survival of this vital sport. I also recognize the challenges many of you face, particularly around access to equipment, resources, and facilities.
The Ministry of Sports and Recreation (MSR) plays a pivotal role in elevating all sports and recreational activities in Samoa. Our mission is to drive sporting and recreational activities to lift the standards of our athletes as well as the well-being of our people.
The blessing of the canoes resonates deeply with the goals and objectives of the Government of Samoa through the MSR. It symbolizes our commitment to nurturing talent, fostering unity, and promoting a healthy lifestyle for all Samoans. I want to assure you that the Ministry of Sports and Recreation is committed to supporting the growth and sustainability of paddling in Samoa.
I also commend the work of the Samoa Outrigger Canoe Association (SOCA) for your tireless leadership. Despite obstacles, you continue to hold the torch for this important sport, and the Government is here to walk alongside you.
Together with SASNOC and our sports partners, we will work towards strengthening our support systems so that paddling continues to thrive, not only as a sport, but as a pathway to unity, wellness, and cultural pride. Let us paddle forward as one people, honouring our past while charting a bold course for the future.
Fa’afetai tele lava and may God bless you all.
Soifua ma ia Manuia!!!
Photo by the Government of Samoa (Jasmine Netzler-Iose)
