Setbacks to Comebacks: Spirited U17 Games Pave Way for Young Women Athletes in the FSM
August 11, 2024
![a group of people in a room](/sites/g/files/zskgke326/files/2024-08/group_pic-chuuk_1.jpeg)
The Chuuk State Team Together with coaches, DHSA staff and UNDP in Pohnpei, FSM.
Eight months after a runner-up finish in the inaugural 17 & Under Games (17U Games), Chuuk Girls High School achieved a remarkable redemption 12-months later. Representing the State of Chuuk, the girls side 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 feels incredible, especially now that we are representing the entire state,” said Power Forward Awleen Werner.
“It shows how hard we trained and how far we can go when we work together.”
“We didn’t win at the first 17U Games, but that only pushed us to do better,” said Chuuk Girls Basketball Team Captain and this year’s Most Valuable Player, Amy Aritos.
“I am happy and proud we took home the championship this year. This is an exciting moment for all of us.”
The 17U and Holiday Games, spearheaded by the Department of Health and Social Affairs (DHSA), highlight the importance of athletics, particularly for the young women of FSM. The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) Pacific Office shares this vision, viewing these tournaments as a crucial platform to hone skills, boost the confidence of young women athletes, and foster camaraderie among players across the states.
Through the Strengthening Gender Machinery (GM) Project, UNDP has been instrumental in enabling the Chuuk Girls High School team to compete in the Holiday Games. This year at the 17U Games, UNDP recognized their hard work and excellence through sponsorship arrangements.
“UNDP's work on gender equality strives to build a society where opportunities are accessible to everyone, regardless of age, gender, race, or ethnicity,” said Kevin Petrini, UNDP Deputy Resident Representative in the North Pacific, during a gathering with the team and staff.
“This includes empowering women and girls in all aspects of life—education, employment, decision-making, and, as we witnessed today, in sports. We are proud to support such a talented group of young athletes on their path to excellence.”
Supported by the India-UN Development Partnership Fund, the GM Project in the FSM, in collaboration with DHSA, strives to elevate women and girls through policy advocacy, addressing structural barriers, promoting women’s leadership, initiating income-generating projects, and improving access to essential small-scale infrastructures. It works with traditional and community leaders in key sectors across the states of Yap, Chuuk, Pohnpei, and Kosrae. It also supports initiatives that provide women and girls opportunities to engage in activities like sports that contribute to personal development and overall well-being.
![a group of people posing for the camera](/sites/g/files/zskgke326/files/2024-08/chuuk_team_visit.jpeg)
The Chuuk Team Visit.
DHSA’s Sports and Physical Wellness Coordinator Sebastian T. Tairuwepiy expressed gratitude for the support given to the teams.
“Chuuk Team almost didn’t make it to Pohnpei for the Holiday Games, but with the GM Project’s help, they were able to fly in to show how much they have grown since their first 17U tournament,” Mr. Tairuwepiy shared.
“We extend our heartfelt congratulations to all athletes, organizers, coaches, and thanks to UNDP and partners. We look forward to stronger collaborations to further the empowerment of FSM’s young athletes.”
This December, the 2024 Holiday Games will once again be held in Pohnpei, while the 3rd 17U Games are set to take place in Weno. The Chuuk Girls Basketball Team is poised to defend their title, and Head Coach Raisa Ruda couldn’t be prouder of the team’s performance, determination, and grit.
“It’s always a blessing to be part of youth and women in sports and to have the opportunity to positively impact their lives,” Coach Raisa shared.
“I’m very proud of them—they’ve come a long way since last summer. It truly shows that hard work pays off. To God be the glory!”
The success of these young athletes is not just a testament to their talent but also to the supportive framework provided by initiatives like the 17U Games. With continued support and commitment, the future looks bright for young women athletes in the FSM.
For more information or media queries, please contact:
Lilian Dawha | Programme Analyst, Effective Governance and Inclusive Growth, UNDP Pacific in the Federated States of Micronesia | (E) lilian.dawha@undp.org