Rebels to play Samoa in trial match
It will be the first time that the Rebels have played Samoa whose reputation for fast paced intensity will be the perfect preparation for the 2016 Super Rugby Season.
Rebels foundation player Laurie Weeks is looking forward to the clash.
"After a long pre-season it's always exciting to have your first home hit out and put all of that training and hard work into practice. Samoan Rugby has a proud history and I'm expecting this game to be a challenge, they are big, fast and extremely physical in their playing style."
The Rebels v Samoa trial match may also be the cause of a little tension with allegiances tested off the field.
"The Rebels fans are pretty passionate, but then so is the Samoan Rugby community. There might be a few fans caught between supporting us and national pride. Let's hope the Rebels fans don't get drowned out by cheers for the opposition."
With over 4,000 Samoans living in Victoria, support for the touring international team is expected to be strong.
For Weeks and fellow players Cruze Ah Nau, Pat Leafa, Siliva Siliva and new home grown recruit Rob Leota the game holds particular resonance with their own cultural heritage and a chance to acknowledge the importance of the Samoan community in Victoria.
Melbourne local Siliva is a firm favourite with young club players who hope to one day realise their own professional rugby dreams.
"I grew up with the game at Endeavour Hills and am fortunate to be able to play professional rugby here in Melbourne in front of my family. The local club is not just about playing rugby but it's a place where the community comes together."
The Samoa trial match will also be the first occasion to see high profile new Rebels recruits in action with Adam Thomson, James Hanson, Jamie Hagan and Culum Retallick all keen to show they're Rebel ready.
The Rebels will play the Blues on February 4 and Samoa on February 18.
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