Twenty of the ADF's finest Australian football players have had the honour of playing in the first full international Australian football game in Samoa.

The players were selected on performances at the recent ADF national titles in Brisbane, with the Samoan tour following from the successes of tours to New Zealand in 1996 and South Africa in 1997.

Proudly sponsored by ADCU, Agrevo and ADI and coached by SGT Mick Whiteley of RAAF Richmond, the team played a warm-up game against local premiers, the Fasito-o Tigers in a typical tropical downpour.

After adapting to the fierce tackling of the locals, the ADF team won 12.20(98) to 1.2(8).

The Aussies had only two days to recover prior to what was billed in the local media as a full international against the Premier's 22. This time in fine conditions, the ADF's greater experience saw them prevail 22.14(146) to 2.2(14).

The team travelled to Samoa with ADF umpires, all whom hold current AFL qualifications. They also conducted a number of coaching clinics in Samoan schools where they were overwhelmed by the enthusiasm and natural talent of the local boys.

The tour also assisted the Samoans prepare for the inaugural International Australian Football Cup, being held in Melbourne in August 2002.

The players wish to thank the Samoans for their wonderful hospitality, great love of footy and eagerness to teach the ADF team aspects of their culture.