The following is a report from Team Amerika Samoa now in Las Vegas for the JPS Classic Championship in Las Vegas:
With the Lord’s blessing and love, Team Amerika Samoa arrived safely in Las Vegas, Nevada, late afternoon Thursday, January 5.
Following check-in at the Fairfield by Marriott Hotel Northwest, they enjoyed a meal from In and Out Burger with muffins and bananas. After a brief rest period, the team headed to Estelle Park for a light practice. In the evening they enjoyed a teri-chicken dinner from L&L Diner.
On Friday, after breakfast, the team practice began at 5 a.m. with weight training and on the field at Estelle Park until 10:00 a.m.
At 12 p.m. they enjoyed lunch from Cane’s. In the evening, the team had the privilege to practice at All American Field followed by a dinner at Crazy buffet.
On Saturday, practice began again at 5 a.m. with weight training and on the field at Estelle Park until 10:00 a.m. Lunch was held at 12 p.m. from Bucca’s. After lunch, the team had study hall for two hours before preparing for practice from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. Light dinner of sandwiches, cup of noodles, fruit, and granola bars.
On Sunday Team Amerika Samoa was invited to worship at Etena Fou Church. The service was conducted by A’oa’o Siolo Osa and filmed live on YouTube Etena Fou Church. Team Amerika Samoa was overwhelmed by the warm welcome and generosity of the congregation of $1,500 donation which the team used for lunch at Golden Coral.
E sa’o ai le upu o le gagana, “e lele le toloa, ae ma’au le vai” i le agalelei ma le alofa o tatou tagatanu’u i alo ma fanau o Amerika Samoa.
After returning to the hotel, the team had a 2 hour study hall. Students were helped by Deputy Director of Education, Dr. Roxanne Salave’a, Principal Tutuila Togilau, JPS Commissioner Dr. Tupulua Bone Ta’ase, and coaches. In the evening the Team enjoyed a fun night at A1 Bowling & Amusement Center bowling and playing arcade games.
On behalf of JPS Amerika Samoa and Deputy Director Dr. Roxanne Salave’a, we extend our fa’afetai tele lava to our friends and families who have visited Team Amerika Samoa to express their alofa: Off Island Leone Alumni, Siaea and Fepulea’i Osa, Siagatonu Siagatonu, Nik Tavale, Shilo Pritchard, Malcolm Sword, Shanna and Don Sene.
