Eight months after a second-place finish at the inaugural 17 & Under Games (17U Games), Chuuk Girls High School made a remarkable comeback 12 months later. Representing Chuuk State, the girls’ team dominated the second 17U Games in Pohnpei, Federated States of Micronesia (FSM) with a decisive 3-0 series victory, proving that with teamwork, discipline and determination, anything can be achieved.

“Winning the 17U games this time is an incredible feeling, especially now that we are representing the entire state,” said power forward Awleen Werner.

“It shows how hard we have trained and how far we can go if we work together.”

“We didn’t win the first 17U games, but that just spurred us on to do better,” said Amy Aritos, captain of the Chuuk girls basketball team and this year’s Most Valuable Player.

“I am happy and proud that we brought home the championship this year. This is an exciting moment for all of us.”

The 17U and Holiday Games, initiated by the Department of Health and Social Services (DHSA), highlight the importance of sports, especially for young women in FSM. The Pacific Office of the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) shares this vision and sees these tournaments as an important platform to improve skills, build confidence among young female athletes and foster camaraderie among players across all states.

Through the Strengthening Gender Machinery (GM) project, UNDP played a key role in enabling the Chuuk Girls High School team to participate in the Holiday Games. This year at the 17U Games, UNDP recognized their hard work and outstanding performance through sponsorship agreements.

“UNDP’s work on gender equality aims to build a society where opportunities are accessible to all, regardless of age, gender, race or ethnicity,” said Kevin Petrini, UNDP Deputy Representative in the North Pacific, during a meeting with the team and staff.

“This includes empowering women and girls in all areas of life – education, employment, decision-making and, as we saw today, in sport. We are proud to be able to support such a talented group of young athletes on their path to excellence.”

The GM project in the FSM is supported by the India-UN Development Partnership Fund and works in collaboration with DHSA to empower women and girls through policy advocacy, reduce structural barriers, support women in leadership positions, initiate income-generating projects and improve access to essential small-scale infrastructure. It works with traditional and community leaders in key sectors in Yap, Chuuk, Pohnpei and Kosrae states. It also supports initiatives that provide women and girls with opportunities to participate in activities such as sports that contribute to personal development and overall well-being.

Sebastian T. Tairuwepiy, DHSA Sports and Fitness Coordinator, expressed his gratitude for the support of the teams.

“The Chuuk team almost didn’t make it to the Holiday Games in Pohnpei, but with the help of the GM Project they were able to fly in to show how much they have improved since their first 17U tournament,” said Mr. Tairuwepiy.

“We warmly congratulate all athletes, organizers and coaches and thank the UNDP and its partners. We look forward to a stronger collaboration to provide even greater support to the young athletes of the FSM.”

This December, the 2024 Holiday Games will once again be held in Pohnpei, while the 3rd 17U Games are scheduled to take place in Weno. The Chuuk Girls Basketball team is ready to defend its title, and head coach Raisa Ruda couldn’t be prouder of the team’s performance, determination and grit.

“It is always a blessing to be part of the youth and women in sports and to have the opportunity to positively impact their lives,” said coach Raisa.

“I’m very proud of them – they’ve come a long way since last summer. This really shows that hard work pays off. To God be the glory!”

The success of these young athletes is not only a testament to their talent, but also to the supportive framework provided by initiatives such as the 17U Games. With continued support and commitment, the future looks bright for young athletes in the FSM.

For further information or media enquiries please contact:

Lilian Dawha | Programme Analyst, Effective Governance and Inclusive Growth, UNDP Pacific in the Federated States of Micronesia | (E) [email protected]