A local volleyball team made up of players from Leusoalii and Luatuanuu claimed the men's and women's titles at a tournament in Auckland. 

It was the third time for the I'a Sa Club to tour New Zealand. They also were able to be part of the Pacific Rose Cup in Wellington. 

"We also took the opportunity to host our tournament in New Zealand to celebrate 23 years since our club was established. We had three teams, we had men's A and B, and one women's team. Our tour was planned and put together by our manager Wayne Aimaasu,  and our coach Tuulua Lauina," said the men's team captain, Duane Kuresa.

In the Mava Trans-Pacific Tournament, the men came second and the women came third. In the Pacific Rose Cup in Wellington, women came third while the men took the title. In their own I'a Sa tournament, both men and women reigned supreme.

"More than 20 players (both men and women) came on this tour. This club is not just for the youth to get to know each other but also to put their God-given talent to good use," said Kuresa. 

"The next step is to continue using this platform as a way to unite our youth and that is the essence of sport. We have now arrived in Samoa, and soon the volleyball season will begin."

The team is made up of youth from Leusoalii, however, they opened up the opportunity for players from other clubs to join their tour. 

"We selected players from our neighbouring village Luatuanuu to be part of our team. And they were part of our travelling squad. Our advice is, don't limit yourself in Samoa, but go beyond. Your talent will grow if you participate in more tournaments. We are the first club in Samoa to host a tour around New Zealand," Kuresa added.

He said preparations towards the tour are never easy but teamwork and having that one spirit is all it took for them. They were able to go on this tour through their fundraising activities such as BBQ and raffles. Their families and friends also contributed to their cause. 

"Special acknowledgment to Tuilaepa Mathew of Auckland Orcas who organised this event for our club in terms of finances with all three tournaments we took part in. Special thank you to our Manager Wayne, he was the arms and legs for our club during this whole tour. Not only with our fundraising but also with looking after our teams. Not forgetting our coach, Tuulua Lauina who was responsible for handling the matches for all three teams. Another thank you to members of the volleyball clubs in New Zealand, Fasa Peni and Faitaua Francis Faleone. Friends and families who came to visit us and gifted us with so many things. And a big shout out to our village, Leusoalii for their continuous support. God bless your hearts and everyone who has help made all of this possible."