Three Pasifika women join forces to go on a winning streak in the U21 Pan American Cup, winning gold for the United States of America. This team is comprised of talented collegiate athletes throughout North America, representing not only the American flag, but the islands that make up the South Pacific. 

The head coach who helped guide the U21 USA Volleyball roster is Native Hawaiian volleyball legend Tama Yamashiro. Yamashiro is not new to winning as she is an Olympic medalist and a long time Women’s National Team coach. She has many accolades under her belt and winning gold at the Pan American Cup is another accomplishment to add to that list. 

Being coached by her are two up and coming Pasifika athletes who will be making waves in the next few years at the collegiate level. Outside hitter, Suli Davis who is of Tongan descent helped lead the U21 team to win gold over Canada as she was the leading scorer. Out of the 21 points in the match, 16 points came from her craftiness of being able to put the ball away, terminating with rally-ending kills. 

Helping her in the front row to the right of her is America – Samoan Middle Blocker, Manaia Ogbechie. She plays for a Top 5 program in the country as a Nebraska Volleyball player. With her background of performing at a high level throughout the year, it is not surprising that she was able to get the job done with five kills, three blocks and one ace, being a force on the frontlines of the net. 

The combination of talents from these three Polynesian Women showcased excellence at one of the highest levels and on a global scale. We are looking forward to following them around and highlighting more Pasifika Women Athletes who are repping the Pacific wherever they go.