OFFICE OF THE GOVERNOR – American Samoa
PRESS RELEASE
(for immediate release – Saturday, December 29, 2007)
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Gov. Togiola welcomes Hawaii & AS Football All-Stars to Samoa Bowl V

(UTULEI) – Governor Togiola Tulafono and First Lady Mary Tulafono hosted an official dinner in honor of the Hawaii and American Samoa Football All-Stars on Saturday night at the Convention Center in Utulei.

Governor Togiola welcomed all the participants of Samoa Bowl V to be played on Tuesday, New Year’s Day at Veterans Memorial Stadium in Tafuna.
“It truly is a pleasure and an honor every year to host all the Samoa Bowl All-Stars. And even more special this year, our 5th year, and we’re growing and getting better every year. We’re very happy with the success of Samoa Bowl and we owe it all to the participation of the Hawaii and American Samoa teams. We thank you very much for your participation,” said Governor Togiola.

“On behalf of my wife, Mary, and the Samoa Bowl committee, we welcome all of you to Samoa Bowl V. And, a special welcome, again, on behalf of the First Lady, the people and government of American Samoa, the Samoa Bowl Committee,  the American Samoa All-Stars and coaching staff, we welcome the Hawaii All-Stars, coaching staff, committee and the family support group to American Samoa. Welcome Home,” said Governor Togiola.

Governor Togiola said it was a very proud feeling to see both football teams as part of “our one big and happy Samoan family.”

“It is very true what you continue to hear about Samoa Bowl and the true spirit of what we set out to do five years ago. We wanted to invite our Samoan and fellow Polynesian football players from off island, in Hawaii and the mainland, and give this once in a lifetime and wonderful opportunity to come back home to your roots and play on Samoan soil against your brothers that call Samoa home so that they can also enjoy you as brothers,” said Governor Togiola. “You’ve now arrived and we’re happy and proud that you are on island. Every year we continue to learn from you and it is our prayer that you also learn something from us and take home a big slice of your Samoan heritage. Enjoy your visit. Good luck to both teams. Get to know each other. Make the best of it because the memories of Samoa Bowl V is a once in a lifetime experience,” said Governor Togiola.