Independent Boxing Samoa (IBS) has delivered a masterclass at the Pacific Nations Cup in Suva, Fiji, returning home with an astonishing haul of 12 gold and 7 silver medals.
The collective performance at the highly competitive regional tournament establishes Team Samoa as formidable talent across both youth and elite age divisions.
Following Samoa’s historic success last month at the Youth World Cup in Thailand—where the team won a Gold and Silver medal—this performance in Fiji over the weekend is a true testament to the development of world-class boxers at IBS.
The medal haul is the direct result of a gruelling, weeks-long training camp with intense skills and conditioning regimes. Equally important to their physical preparation was the team’s strong spiritual foundation. Faith remains central to the entire squad.
The preparation was overseen by president, Tavu’i Mike Lemisio alongside head trainer and boxing legend, Faumuina To’aletai David Tua. Having a heavyweight icon like Tua leading the charge provided the team with world-class technical insights and the fighting spirit needed to dominate on the international stage.
The leadership team was further bolstered by a dedicated management and assistant coaching staff, which included Kelemete Vui, Tagaloa Rudy Roebeck, and Leuatea James Schmidt. Their combined efforts ensured the team was finely tuned and highly motivated.
“Despite our limited resources, IBS strives to provide our young fighters the international pathways they deserve,” said IBS President, Tavu’i Mike Lemisio.
“We could only send a small team of four boys and one girl to the Youth World Cup last month, but we hope to one day field a full team covering all weight classes and genders for all world events.
With the help of the government and local businesses, and faith in God, we are working towards giving our athletes the opportunities they work so hard for.
Elite Age Squad
Saliuafi Tuautu (75kg): The team captain led by example from the front, dominating his division to win 2 Gold medals.
Jolando Ta’ala (90+kg): Won a Gold medal and received the trophy for Best Male Boxer.
Ioane Ioane (60kg): Secured 1 Gold and 1 Silver medal, notably defeating the Papua New Guinea champion in the process.
Darius Poulava (80kg): Put on a strong showing to claim 1 Gold and 1 Silver medal.
Luke Schwalger (85kg): Based overseas was proud to bring home 1 Gold and 1 Silver medal for Samoa.
Youth Squad
Alavine Sasa (60kg): Captured 2 Gold medals, proving his pedigree by beating the Fijian No. 1 in his weight class.
Anthony Lama-Roebeck (65kg): Showcased his rising talent by winning 2 Gold medals.
Mike Vui (70kg): Earned 1 Gold and 1 Silver medal for the youth squad.
Wells Matua (80kg): Claimed 1 Gold medal, highlighted by a victorious bout over the Fijian champion.
Polu Ta’avao (85kg): Closely fought battle to claim 1 Silver medal.
Tasi Saufoi (90kg): Youth Heavyweight with 1 Silver medal.
With two successful campaigns at the World Boxing Futures Cup and Pacific Nations Cup, IBS now looks forward to hosting the Oceania Boxing Championships, International Marist Boxing Event, and a professional boxing showcase event. As well as preparing Team Samoa for the Commonwealth Games, Elite World Cup, and Youth Olympic Games.
Our grassroots training programme and IBS Academy is open to all ages, Monday-Thursday, weekly. Independent Boxing Samoa Inc. is the official national federation and governing body for the sport of boxing in Samoa
Post Views: 907
