Samoa Rugby Union Chairman, Tuilaepa Sailele Malielegaoi stated, “the Samoa Rugby Union is very excited about the relationship with PUMA.” He went on to say, “At this critical point in the rebuilding of our national rugby team we believe that PUMA’s innovative success with other sporting teams will also lead us to further success on the field and at the next Rugby World Cup.”

Samoa is considered one of the most fertile breeding grounds for rugby talent in the world; players of Samoan descent are currently on the roster of elite clubs and National teams in Australia and New Zealand. With a proud heritage in the game, Manu Samoa has firmly emerged on the professional rugby scene as a strong competitor with a combination of fast paced, powerful, dynamic play and flair.

After winning the 1993 Hong Kong Sevens, Samoa went on to success in the 1995 Rugby World Cup (RWC) in South Africa, where they reached the quarterfinals with wins over Argentina and Italy. At the 1999 RWC the team delivered a decisive and shocking victory over the host nation of Wales. Samoa went on to nearly defeat England, the eventual champions in 2003 at the RWC to secure a place in the finals. Looking ahead to the 2007 RWC, Manu Samoa will be major contenders and the team to watch.

The new agreement commences on October 15th, 2005 and includes all on field, sideline, training and representation apparel, as well as a selection of lifestyle offerings. Manu Samoa will debut their new PUMA kit at the Northern Hemisphere tour, which is scheduled to commence in November 2005.