PEACE AND FRIENDSHIP VOLLEYBALL TOURNAMENT
Youth gathered for the Pacific Voices Peace and Friendship Volleyball Tournament. Photo by Rona Mangayayam.
One of the youth receives a certificate of appreciation. Photo by Innocenta Sound-Kikku.
At Kalākaua District Park, KKV’s Pacific Voices hosted the Peace and Friendship Volleyball Tournament from November 18 to 20. Eight teams consisting of nearly a hundred youth from Kalihi Valley Homes and the Towers at Kuhio Park competed in the tournament over the course of three days. This was an exciting weekend since COVID-19 made it impossible to hold the tournament in 2020 and 2021.
The introduction of mixed age group competition was a welcomed change that fostered good sportsmanship amongst players. Although the kids don’t regularly practice volleyball, they were fast learners and made some impressive plays. It was a pleasure to see them so excited and working hard as teams.
The Tiro Pun team meaning in Chuukese “to honor the land” won the championship. Amarai meaning “growth” in Chuukese took second place. Tirow Menisin meaning “to honor each and every one” in Chuukese took home third place.
KKV would like to extend a big thank you to the Matsuura Foundation for funding this event, and to all staff and volunteers, who fostered an atmosphere of kindness and unity. We are excited to come back next year!
Participants gather on the court before the matches start. Photo by Rona Mangayayam.
During the games, the youth showed kindness to each other and fostered an atmosphere where everyone can enjoy playing. Photo by Innocenta Sound-Kikku.
