ELIJAH NIKO RAISES CONCERNS OVER SAMOA 7S TEAM MANAGEMENT: ADVOCATES FOR PLAYER WELFARE AND FAIR TREATMENT

Samoa 7s player Elijah Niko has bravely spoken out about ongoing concerns surrounding team and Samoa Rugby Union (SRU) management, shedding light on the challenges faced by the players and advocating for change. Niko, drawing on his extensive rugby experience with clubs such as Melbourne Storm, New Zealand Warriors, and various French clubs, emphasizes the commitment and sacrifices made by Samoan players to break societal barriers and create better opportunities for themselves.

Financial Struggles and Sacrifices:

In a poignant revelation, Niko discloses that he personally spent over 10,000 euros on flights and hotels during his involvement with the Samoan squad. Despite the players' unwavering commitment, some earning minimal pay, Niko urges the SRU to increase the minimum salaries for Samoan 7s players, allowing them to live more reasonably while representing their country.

Unanswered Questions on Team Expenses:

Niko raises a pertinent question about the allocation of funds within the team, particularly concerning the contrasting treatment between coaching staff and players. Expressing confusion over the disparity, he questions why coaches often fly in business or first class while the young players sit at the back of the plane.

Interference in Overseas Opportunities:

The heart of Niko's concerns lies in the alleged interference by SRU management in a significant overseas opportunity for a talented young Samoan player. Despite a promising offer from a French club, the SRU reportedly tore up the contract and prevented the player from pursuing the opportunity. Niko highlights the illegality of such actions and emphasizes the need for fair treatment and opportunities for Samoan players.

Silenced Voices and Fear:

Niko expresses concern over the fear instilled in the players, discouraging them from speaking out about their feelings and concerns. He urges his fellow players not to be afraid of the management and coaching staff, emphasizing the importance of knowing their worth and pursuing opportunities that arise.

Call for International Recognition:

Advocating for the talents of Samoan players, Niko calls on international rugby clubs to recognize and appreciate the skills and dedication of these athletes. He encourages scouts from around the world to witness the training sessions of Samoan players, emphasizing the abundance of untapped talent.

Humanizing the Players:

Reminding everyone that Samoan players are first and foremost humans, Niko emphasizes the need for humane treatment. He calls for a players association within the SRU, providing a platform for players to voice their concerns directly to the CEO of Samoa.

Investment in Player Well-being:

Niko calls for the SRU to invest in the health and well-being of players, particularly in terms of nutrition and recovery. He recounts incidents where players were hungry after tough training sessions, prompting him to personally buy food and essentials for the team.

Future Aspirations:

Closing his statement, Niko expresses his desire to work with the SRU in a different direction, focusing on the development of Samoan rugby from grassroots to professional levels. He envisions a brighter future for the Samoan Rugby brand, suggesting a transition toward embracing technology and social media to promote the sport globally.

In conclusion, Elijah Niko's powerful statement brings attention to crucial issues within the Samoa 7s team, emphasizing the need for transparency, fair treatment, and increased support for the players. His call for change resonates not only within the Samoan rugby community but also among international observers, highlighting the importance of prioritizing player welfare and recognizing the untapped potential within Samoan rugby.