Week of learning leaves lasting impact in Samoa

Young people across Samoa have taken their first steps into the world of parkour and gymnastics following a week-long development visit led by Australian National Parkour Coach Caedyn Hardy.

Delivered by Oceania Gymnastics Union and Gymnastics Samoa, the visit combined school programs, community activities and coach education, helping to build local coaching capability while inspiring the next generation of participants to discover the joy of movement.

Throughout the week, Caedyn worked alongside Gymnastics Samoa to deliver school activities that introduced local children to the fundamentals of movement, while also presenting the OGU Coach Certificate Program. Coaches from Samoa and American Samoa also took part in the free education course, which focused on Gymnastics for All, parkour and basic movement skills, giving them practical knowledge they can immediately take back to their clubs, schools and communities.

Gymnastics Samoa President Sopo welcomed the visit and said it had made a lasting impression on everyone involved.

"The kids loved it and it's why they kept coming all week. We have learnt so much from Caedyn. Thank you for making the time to travel, teach and coach here in Samoa. You have left us motivated and inspired. We look forward to working together more in the future."

Reflecting on the visit, Caedyn described the experience as one he will never forget.

"I've just finished up what I can only describe as a coach's dream week. I got to travel around the beautiful island nation of Samoa, meet some incredibly kind people, and spend every day doing what I love. Every day has been unreal, and I really believe the education we delivered will have a lasting impact."

With gymnastics and parkour still emerging in Samoa, the week focused on building confidence and capability among local coaches. Rather than introducing complex skills, the aim was to strengthen foundational coaching knowledge and show how quality programs can thrive even with limited equipment or space.

"We focused on the fundamentals of coaching, developing basic movement skills, and making the most of the spaces and equipment they have available. It was all about giving the coaches practical tools they can take straight back into their classes."

Caedyn said he hopes participants now feel confident to continue growing the sports within their own communities.

"I hope everyone has come away feeling confident in their ability to run Gymnastics for All and Parkour classes, whether that's in clubs or schools. More than anything, I hope they now have a solid understanding of the fundamentals and feel excited to keep growing the sports within their communities."

The visit reflects OGU’s ongoing work across the region to strengthen coaching pathways, support emerging programs, and create opportunities for participation. Coaches from both Samoa and American Samoa came together for the parkour education program, highlighting the collaborative spirit that drives development across Oceania.

As the week came to a close, Caedyn summed up the experience simply:

"Fa'afetai lava for such an incredible opportunity and an experience I'll never forget. I can't wait to come back!"