The recent passing of coach Lionel Elika Fatupaito has left Samoan boxer Ato Plodzicki-Faoagali devastated. Fatupaito died just hours before Plodzicki-Faoagali’s opening match at the 2024 Paris Olympics. This loss is especially heartbreaking for Plodzicki-Faoagali, as he had already experienced the loss of his mother during the Tokyo Olympics three years ago.
Lionel Elika Fatupaito, a beloved figure in Samoan sports, suffered a cardiac arrest and passed away at the age of 60 in the Olympic Village. The Samoa Association of Sport and National Olympic Committee (SASNOC) expressed their deep sorrow and assured all 24 athletes in Samoa’s delegation of their support during this difficult time.
Plodzicki-Faoagali, a two-time silver medalist at the Commonwealth Games, took to social media to pay tribute to his late coach. He described Fatupaito as a kind and generous coach who shared not only his time and material things but also his knowledge. Plodzicki-Faoagali fondly recalled meeting Lionel at the age of 15 during trials for Samoa’s Youth team. He expressed his grief with a heartfelt message, saying, “You will be sorely missed, coach… Rest well old man, gonna miss you out there.”
Despite the devastating news, Plodzicki-Faoagali faced Belgium’s Victor Schelstraete in his first bout at the 2024 Olympics just 48 hours later. Under immense emotional strain, he was unable to secure a victory. However, with the support of his father and the Papua New Guinea coach, he persevered through the match.
This tragedy echoes a similar experience in Tokyo, where Plodzicki-Faoagali learned of his mother Monica’s passing while competing. His father kept the news from him to avoid affecting his performance. In a tribute shared by Marist Boxing – Samoa, Lionel’s family expressed their support for Plodzicki-Faoagali, sending their love and well wishes.
Reflecting on the challenges of the past week, Ato Plodzicki-Faoagali commented on the loss of his friend and coach, the late arrival to acclimatize, and the toll it took on him mentally. Despite these difficulties, he chose not to withdraw from the games, not wanting to let down Samoa, his coach, sponsors, and family. Plodzicki-Faoagali concluded with a message to his homeland, saying, “Samoa, I gave it what I could honestly, it wasn’t my best, but I fought my heart out for you!”
Supporters and fellow athletes have come together to offer their condolences and praise to Plodzicki-Faoagali. One supporter acknowledged his role as a remarkable example for the younger generations, opening doors and paving the way for future representatives of Samoa. Another commended his resilience and expressed pride on behalf of the coach and the entire country of Samoa.
Pauga Talalelei Pauga, president of the Samoa National Olympic Committee, paid tribute to Fatupaito, describing him as one of Samoa’s top boxing coaches and a true believer in the Olympic ideal. The International Boxing Association also honored Fatupaito’s memory, recognizing his dedication and passion for the sport, which has made a lasting impact on the boxing community. His legacy will continue to inspire future generations.
