Pago Pago, AMERICAN SAMOA — Over 140 athletes and officials who are representing American Samoa at the 2023 Pacific Games were expected to depart yesterday evening, November 13, on the first leg of their journey to the Solomon Islands.

In a ceremony hosted at the CCCAS Nuuuli Church this past Sunday, the American Samoa National Olympic Committee (ASNOC) organized a gathering, bringing together athletes, officials, and families to offer a warm send-off.

Lt. Governor Talauega E.V. Ale delivered the address, accentuating the values of teamwork, dedication, and sportsmanship. “As you compete, keep in your hearts those who are cheering you on from home: your families and the people of American Samoa,” Talauega said.

ASG made a monetary donation of $200,000 for the delegation.

Reverend Leitualasa Malieitulua led the prayer service, bestowing blessings and invoking divine guidance for the athletes' safety, success, and the fostering of goodwill among nations during the upcoming Games.

Others taking part in the ceremony included Taufete’e M. Taufete’e and Western District Governor, Faiivae Godinet, also representing the ASNOC Board.

The American Samoa delegation numbers 185 delegates, which includes athletes, coaches, and officials. Leaving last night were 144 delegates, and the American Samoa men's and women’s rugby teams will join the delegation after the 2023 Oceania Rugby Sevens Challenge in Australia.

The Governor’s Office wholeheartedly sends its best wishes to the athletes of the American Samoa Team. “May God’s blessings accompany each of you on your journey, and may success grace every endeavor!”

The event will be streamed live on KVZK TV, while Samoa News will also have a reporter on hand to tell the ‘stories’ that give such events and human endeavors flavor.