At just 17 years old, Samoa Football referee Filipo Folau has travelled to New Zealand ahead of the OFC U-15 Development Tournament 2026, which is set to begin on 1 October 2026. Filipo has been selected to serve as an Assistant Referee at the tournament, marking an important milestone in his young refereeing journey.
This will be Filipo’s first OFC development tournament as an Assistant Referee since beginning his journey as a Samoa Football referee.
The opportunity gives the young official a chance to gain valuable international experience, learn from experienced match officials, and continue developing his skills at the OFC level.
Filipo’s journey is also special for his family, as he follows in the footsteps of his older sister, Maria Salamasina, who has also made her mark in refereeing.
For Filipo, this opportunity represents the beginning of a dream he has worked towards since becoming a referee. His sister Maria shared that one of his biggest ambitions is to one day earn an OFC badge or FIFA badge.
Now, with his selection for the OFC U-15 Development Tournament, Filipo has taken another important step towards that goal.
Although the tournament is yet to begin, his journey to New Zealand is already a proud achievement and an exciting opportunity for the young referee to represent Samoa and gain valuable experience on the international stage.
At just 17, Filipo’s refereeing journey is only beginning, but his determination and ambition continue to open new opportunities as he works towards his long-term goal of reaching the OFC and FIFA levels of refereeing.
