Pickleball is sweeping across the world, and Samoa is making sure it does not get left behind. This week, Samoan athletes have taken the court in Florida, USA, competing in a major international tournament that leads into the 2025 Pickleball World Cup. Samoa will field both an Open Team and a Senior Team, proudly wearing Samoan colors on one of the sport’s biggest stages.

What started as a backyard pastime in the United States has rapidly become one of the fastest growing sports worldwide. Pickleball combines elements of tennis, badminton, and table tennis, making it accessible for players of all ages and skill levels. Today, countries around the globe are developing national programs, hosting regional competitions, and building a new generation of athletes.

Samoa is part of that exciting movement. Local courts are seeing more regular play, community groups are forming, and development efforts are underway to support both youth and adult participation. The enthusiasm has been fueled by the sport’s simplicity and the strong sense of community it creates.

Samoa’s players arrive in Florida not only to compete at a high level, but also to learn from international experience and bring that knowledge back home. Their participation shines a spotlight on the dedication of volunteers, families, and supporters who have helped develop sport in the islands.

This week’s events mark an important step forward. Representing Samoa on the world stage gives these players a sense of national pride, while inspiring others at home to pick up a paddle and give the sport a try.

All players participating are members of the Pickleball Association of Samoa Inc and continue to be great supporters of growing the sport in Samoa.  PAS, President, Afoafouvale Mark Moors is joined by Team coaches, Paulo Mataia & Angie Peffer, Team Coordinator, LaVon Ankers, Tiffany Fepulea’i as team manager and David Faapouli as photographer.  Samoa Open Team:  Paulo Mataia, Usufono Fepuleai, Mark Moors, Ualesi Puni, Rob Moors, Owen Smolik, Danielle Taufa, Goretti Sua, Limaiva Lolo Aetonu and Faaosofia Pesaleli.  Samoa Senior Team includes Angie Peffer, Lalomanu Moors, Aleni Fuatimau, Faioso Aiono and Leo Tanielu.