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Joyful cheers rang out at the airport Thursday night to welcome home American Samoa’s gold winners at the Pacific Mini Games in Palau. The women’s softball, women’s volleyball, and wrestling teams arrived safely from the Palau games to a rousing, jubilant welcome. As ASNOC requested, many in the crowd wore red, white and blue. Parents, spouses, children, and fans gathered at the airport with banners, signs, ulas, and cheers. Dollars and confetti rained down on the players as they mingled with the excited and boisterous crowd.
Congresswoman Uiafaatali Amata was among the welcoming crowd and gave out red, white, and blue ula pu’a to the teams.
She said in a press release, “It’s good to have our athletes, coaches, and parents home from competing in the Republic of Palau. Our excellent athletes brought home gold and silver medals and represented our islands very well. We are all proud of their successes and competitive performances, but also all the hours of unseen hard work, training, nutrition efforts, and dedication that go into these achievements and set a good example for young aspiring athletes. Welcome home!”
She added, “Thank you to our people who came out to the airport to show love and appreciation to our athletes, I could see how they enjoyed and appreciated that warm support.”
In Hawaii, the team was welcomed by Lt. Governor Pulumataaala Ae Ae Jr., who extended the government and public’s congratulation and pride.
