Samoa Under 20 rugby coach Semo Sititi admits it's frustrating to lose players to rival countries but says he won't stand in anyone's way.
Former Manu Samoa international and current Samoa Under 20 coach Semo Sititi. Photo: PHOTOSPORT
The Baby Manu are competing in the inaugural Oceania Championship on the Gold Coast, alongside Australia, New Zealand and Japan.
Luteru Laulala, Nathaniel Apa and Fereti Saaga were a part of the Samoan team during last year's Under 20 World Cup, but have since switched allegiance to New Zealand and Australia.
Semo Sititi says while he would like to keep players with Samoa, it's up to the individual to decide who they want to play for.
"I said to all the players, especially those guys involved with other countries, this is the opportunity you have to take. Don't get me wrong but I'm not stopping them from going to play for New Zealand or Australia. I know it's frustrating a bit this is the challenge of the players - it's not just a rugby game, it's their career, their job to help out their families so we have to let them go do the best they can for their future and hopefully one day will come back and play for Samoa, hopefully".
Samoa take on hosts Australia this afternoon, after the opening day of matches was postponed yesterday due to extreme weather.
