Gymnastics Samoa – A new era for the sport

With the new year underway and federations across Oceania already starting classes, for Samoa, this year represents something even more significant. It marks the start of a new chapter for gymnastics in the nation.

In October 2025, Gymnastics Samoa was formally established in Apia. An Annual General Meeting was held, a board was nominated and the organisation was officially recognised by the Government of Samoa.

In just over 100 days, what began as vision has quickly become so much more.

The federation now has three clubs operating across Apia: Crossfit FatuToa, Kalika Dojo and JPs Fitness. Each club is intentionally located in different village areas so families on both sides of town can participate. Weekly sessions are delivered five times per week during school terms, offering KinderGym, Gym4All and Parkour to a growing community.

More than 70 paid members have already joined, supported by three accredited coaches.

For a newly established federation, that growth is extraordinary. But the real celebration sits beyond the numbers.

Gymnastics Samoa is creating safe and engaging environments for young people to move, learn and grow within their community.

For Gymnastics Samoa President Sopolemalama, the reason for the sport’s early popularity is clear.

“Gymnastics allows children to explore, create and discover their skills and abilities while being supported by coaches who are passionate about developing young people.”

In a sporting environment traditionally dominated by team codes, gymnastics offers something distinctively different for the community.

“Gymnastics lays the foundation for all sports. It welcomes boys and girls, caters for different ages and abilities, and builds strength, coordination and confidence that support lifelong participation in physical activity,” said Sopolemalama.

For Samoa, 2026 is not simply the start of a new gymnastics season. It is the beginning of something that will continue to grow, strengthen communities and inspire young people across the nation.