Apia is a fair trek from Castleford but it appeared like home for Tigers boss Lee Radford.
He’s enjoyed an “unbelievable” trip of a lifetime after being honoured in Samoa along with the rest of the Pacific Islanders’ World Cup entourage. Radford worked as an assistant coach as Matt Parish’s side memorably worked their way to a first-ever World Cup final at Old Trafford in November. Having stunned Tonga and then beaten England in an epic semi-final, Samoa eventually lost out to reigning champions Australia.
But their historic exploits brought joyous scenes back home and across the world. More than a month after they came so close to glory - it was Samoa’s first appearance in a World Cup final in ANY sport - they were welcomed back to the capital city Apia as heroes last week after the government organised special celebrations.
And Radford understandably accepted his invite, missing Castleford’s New Year’s Eve friendly with Featherstone to experience just what it means to the proud nation. The Yorkshireman said: "It has been unbelievable. It’s been amazing to come see Samoa itself and a wonderful experience.
“The people here love their rugby league and seeing them come out and party like they have has been amazing. It’s obviously very different to back home and I heard a lot about Samoa when I was in camp with them during the World Cup. I embraced their culture and got to learn plenty about it but now witnessing it first-hand and being so welcomed here has been phenomenal.”
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Hundreds of fans initially descended on Faleolo International Airport to welcome the squad as they arrived on separate flights but thousands have taken part in subsequent celebrations. Samoan Prime Minister Fiame Naomi Mata’afa hosted the squad at a government reception and the squad then travelled to Savai’l - Samoa’s largest island - for New Year’s Eve. Fans came out on force in street parades with locals partying until the early hours in celebration of their heroes.
Samoa World Cup players on their homecoming back on the Pacific island (Credit: INSTAGRAM@https://www.instagram.com/toa_samoa_official/?hl=en#) (INSTAGRAM@https://www.instagram.com/toa_samoa_official/?hl=en#)Radford added: “The reception of the players, seeing people running out into the street to welcome Jarome Luai and Brian To’o, was phenomenal. Being part of that World Cup experience was brilliant for me and I did things I’d never done before but this has taken it to another level. We spoke about how the players’ actions on the field would inspire people here and Samoans around the world.
“But you take it for granted. It’s been a real privilege to come here and see just what it all means to the Samoan people. I’ll never forget the experience and it’s hard to put into words just how humbling and brilliant it’s all been.”
Soon, though, it’s back to work on the home front for Radford as he begins his second season in charge at Wheldon Road. They kick-off their Betfred Super League season at his old club Hull on February 19.
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