The Pacific Mini Games, held in Koror, Palau from June 29 to July 9, saw participation from nearly 1,500 athletes across 24 teams. Among them were two players who will soon join the New Mexico Highlands University (NMHU) volleyball team. Freshman Heiress Palepoi and senior Martinaya Dornic represented American Samoa and Wallis-et-Futuna, respectively.
Palepoi played a crucial role in securing a Gold Medal for American Samoa. She comes from Tafuna High School, where she helped her team win an Island Championship title. Initially hesitant to participate due to her college transition, Palepoi was encouraged by her parents to compete. "My parents encouraged me to stay on the team and use it to add experience and skill," she said.
Dornic, a transfer from Cal State-Los Angeles, earned a Bronze Medal with Wallis-et-Futuna. This marked her second appearance at the Pacific Games. "This was my second time representing my country for the Pacific Games," Dornic said. Recovering from an injury last season, she used the games as a confidence booster. "After my injury last fall, I used this experience as an opportunity to gain confidence in my play," she explained.
Both players see their experiences at the games as beneficial for their upcoming season with NMHU. Palepoi noted that it helped her adapt to new environments and schedules. "This experience helped me learn how to support my teammates and adjust to busy schedules," she said.
Dornic expressed excitement about playing alongside Palepoi at NMHU after bonding during the games. "It was a fun opportunity to connect with someone I'll be attending school and playing with this fall," Palepoi mentioned.
As they prepare for the season starting September 5 against Eastern New Mexico at the Mustang Volleyball Invitational in Silver City, both players cherish their medals in different ways. Palepoi plans to display hers on a mantle at home, while Dornic is undecided about where hers will reside.
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