The Samoa Rugby Union has officially rebranded itself as Lakapi Samoa, in a move it claims will "revitalise" and "reinvigorate" the organisation.
The revamp, which includes a new logo depicting the Teuila flower, was first announced six months ago at the Union's 2020 Annual General Meeting where affiliated members unanimously approved the adoption of a new strategic plan.
Lakapi Samoa Chairman Tuilaepa Sailele Malielegaoi at the launch. Photo: Supplied/Lakapi Samoa
Lakapi Samoa Chairman, Caretaker Prime Minister Tuilaepa Sailele Malielegaoi, said it was the latest step in a reform process which started in 2015, including the restructuring of the union and administration and the updating of its constitution.
He said using the Samoan language and the teuila national flower would distinguish the union from other countries like Singapore and Scotland who use the SRU abbreviation
"That's why we have decided to change our name using our own language which is Lakapi Samoa, by using this name it'll be easier for China, Scotland, England and other countries to say and tell that it's Samoa and we will be proud of it," he said.
The Union claimed that after months of consultation with provincial unions, stakeholders and the Board of directors, it agreed on the new strategic plan "with new core values, goals and focus for the Union", but did not elaborate on what those values, goals or focuses are.
Logo designer Irwin Kennar (L) is presented with a $1000 cheque by Lakapi Samoa Chief Executive Faleomavaega Vincent Fepuleai. Photo: Supplied/Lakapi Samoa
The new Lakapi Samoa logo was designed by artist Irwin Kennar, whose design was chosen from over 300 submissions.
Mr Kennar also designed the logo used for the 2019 Pacific Games.
