Boxing Coach Lionel Fatu Elika Passes Away In France

By Samoa Association Of Sport And National Olympic Committee (SASNOC) 27 Jul 2024 08:30

The Samoa Association of Sport and National Olympic Committee (SASNOC) has announced the passing of esteemed boxing coach Lionel Fatu Elika in France. Elika, one of Samoa's most respected boxing coaches and a fervent supporter of the Olympic ideal, passed away this morning in the Games Village in Paris.

“Lionel was one of Samoa’s top boxing coaches and a great believer in the Olympic ideal,” said Samoa NOC President Mr. Pauga Talalelei Pauga. "Our thoughts and those of the entire Samoan sporting community are with Lionel’s family, his boxers, and friends. He will be greatly missed.”

In response to this tragic news, President Pauga and Secretary General Ms. Maureen Tuimalealiifano held a briefing and team prayer with the Samoa delegation this afternoon. This meeting aimed to reassure the team ahead of the Opening Ceremony and the competitions that will take place over the next two weeks.

The Samoan NOC has requested that the privacy of Lionel’s family and the athletes be respected during this difficult time. They will not be issuing any further statements regarding the matter.