Due to the pink eye epidemic that had the Department of Education call of school for a little more than a week, the completion of the games were behind schedule and rather than continue, all high school sports were canceled.
Assistant Director of DOE Li’a Amisone sent the notice to DOE Athletics Department head Tumua Matu’u of the cancellation with the latter informing FFAS of the decision.
Games could not be rescheduled because the school year is nearing the end with final examinations looming for all the students, especially the seniors.
“I know it’s hard for some of our student athletes but as always, instruction comes first,” wrote Amisone in his notice of cancellation.
“The instruction is our top priority.”
The cancellation of the sporting activities had the full support of DOE Director Vaitinisa Dr. Salu Hunkin-Finau.
“It is sad but very understandable the reasons for the season being canceled,” said FFAS CEO Tavita Taumua.
“One positive out of this is that it will give our U-19 team training for the OFC tournament in Fiji next month more time to prepare.
“To all the underclassmen, see you next year and to the seniors, good luck with your finals.”
Below are the final standings for the junior varsity and varsity divisions.
JUNIOR VARSITY
1. Leone Lions
2. Samoana Sharks
3. Tafuna Warriors
4. Faga’itua Vikings
5. Fa’asao-Marist Crusaders
VARSITY
1. Leone Lions
2. Faga’itua Vikings
3. Fa’asao-Marist Crusaders
4. Samoana Sharks
5. Tafuna Warriors
6. South Pacific Academy Dolphins
7. Kanana Fou Stallions
8. Nu’uuli Voc-Tech Wildcats