Chuuk, Micronesia

WENO TEAM MOWONEAU ARE THE 2005-2006 CHUUK STATE CHAMPIONS

2006-01-18T23:13:00.000-08:00

Champions: Team Mowoneau

TEAM MOWONEAU WINS CHUUK BASKETBALL CHAMPIONSHIP

2006-01-18T23:08:00.001-08:00

Team Mowoneau Wins Chuuk Basketball Championship

The first game of the day had just been completed when the Tol 1 team appeared in the back entrance to the Chuuk High School Gym. Wearing white jerseys this experienced team had a strong and tough inside player, coupled with several young guards who added fresh legs and spirit to this veteran team.

Weno Mowoneau had gathered on the other side of the gym. Prior to entering the gym, affectionately known as “The Cage”, the team had a long and serious meeting in the parking lot. They entered wearing black jerseys and a look of determination.

As the two teams went through warm ups, Referees Bill and Elibie Sewell watched the players. Score bench personnel Randy Petewon, official scorer, Lilly Sewell time keeper and Mason Fritz announcer, watched with interest as the crowd grew. The gym was packed to capacity and the stage set for an exciting and action packed 40 minutes of Chuuk basketball.

These two teams are not strangers to one another. Members of both Tol 1 and Mowoneau have competed against one another for more than five years. In fact, these two teams met in 2000 for the Chuuk Basketball Championship. It was a very competitive game then and the same was anticipated in today’s championship game.

Players from both teams have played together on Chuuk State teams. Both teams have players that competed against one another in the 2005 high school basketball league, and last month players from Tol 1 and Mowoneau met to decide who would reign as the state’s 3-on-3 champs.

But more important, Chuuk’s basketball community is small and players know other players, a small fraternity of individuals who can claim ties to one another through the basketball.

Mowoneau. in order to put pressure on Tol’s center and make certain he didn’t get easy lay-ups, started the game in a man-to-man defense. This strategy kept the inside scoring down, but Tol found an answer in Remes, Tol’s point guard, who early in the first quarter hit two big time 3-point shots, as did Santos and other members of his team.

Mowoneau was able to keep the game close with balanced scoring, so that at the end of the first quarter of play Tol lead by only two points.

The action continued with Mowoneau pushing the pace and continuing to exhibit good medium range shooting as well as scoring several key baskets off the fast break.

Third quarter action saw Mowoneau pull away to a 9 point lead. This lead continued into the fourth quarter, but a surge from Tol brought the game to within two points. Scoring see-sawed but Tol was unable to reclaim the lead.

With 1:58 to go Mowoneau led by 5 points, but a determined Tol team kept coming back, hitting tough shots and pushing their opponents to the limit – Mowoneau answered. As time continued to run the teams exchanged basket for basket, but the lead was never reduced to less than four points.

With only seconds remaining and the clock ticking down, Tol’s Santos grabbed the ball, dribbled to half court where he launched an unbelievable “Globetrotter Meadowlark Lemon” shot that hit nothing but net. The buzzer sounded, and Mowoneau had won 75 to 72 in one of the most thrilling games of basketball ever played in Chuuk.

There were no losers here, only players who now stood on the court, drenched in sweat, exhausted from a fantastic game, all having done their best. Everyone was a champion this day!

2006-01-18T23:08:00.000-08:00

Without Volunteers there could be no basketball tournament.

2006-01-18T23:04:00.000-08:00

2nd Place: Tol 1

2006-01-18T23:01:00.000-08:00

4th Place Weno Cougars

2006-01-18T23:00:00.000-08:00

3rd Place: Mortlocks

Tol 1 and Mwoneau to play for Chuuk State Basketball Championship

2006-01-12T12:29:00.000-08:00

Saturday, January 14th will see the last two games of the Chuuk Basketball Championship (CBC). There will be two games and an enthusiastic crowd is anticipated.

Mortlocks will face the Cougars to determine third and fourth place. The Mortlock team is made up of younger and very talented players, whereas the Cougars have more experienced players. Both teams like to fast break, getting the rebound and outletting to their guards.

Tol 1 is an experienced team with bigger inside men and good outside shooters. They are tough under the boards and play a varied game. Mwoneau is much smaller inside and will have to find an answer to Tol 1's big men.

It should be an exciting day of basketball.

2005 CHUUK BASKETBALL CHAMPIONSHIPS (CBC)

2005-12-23T05:34:00.000-08:00

Defending Champions Cougars

2005-12-23T05:33:00.000-08:00

Scorebench Volunteers Ready To Go

First Two Days of CBC Competition Completed

2005-12-23T05:29:00.000-08:00

Eight teams from four of the regions in Chuuk, Northern and Southern Namoneas, Faichuk, and the Mortlocks, are currently participating in the 2005 Chuuk State basketball championships. The teams are:
• Cougars - Defending Champion
• Mwoneau
• Mortlocks
• Nepukos
• Re Fairo
• Tol 1
• Tol 2
• Weno 3

After two days of pool play each team has played one game.
Game 1: Mortlocks defeated Tol 1
Game 2: Mwoneau defeated Weno 3
Game 3: Cougars defeated Nepukos
Game 4: Re Fairo defeated Tol 2

Games resume on Tuesday, December 26, and pool play continued until December 30. Starting Tuesday, January 3rd teams will crossover and play against teams in the other pool. At the conclusion of the tournament All-Star Teams will be selected and several games will be played.

Girls begin training on Monday, December 26th and games will be scheduled the following weeks.

2005-12-23T05:28:00.000-08:00

Fans enjoying the Meneau vs Weno 3 Game

2005-12-23T05:26:00.000-08:00

Warming up at the CHS gym

2005-12-21T15:54:00.000-08:00

Aneen drives for a layup against Nantaku

3-on-3 Tournament Excites Basketball Fans

2005-12-21T15:46:00.000-08:00

For the last several weekends youth and open aged players from throughout Chuuk State have been gathering at the Chuuk High School Gym to compete in the 2005 3-on-3 Basketball Tournament.

The CHS administration has become active in promoting sports activities for students and the community youth and used the tournament as a fund raiser. Proceeds from the tournament will be used to improve conditions at the gym.

In the youth division it was the Nantaku Youth that won the championship with a perfect record.

In the open division the udefeated Nantaku saw them playing Aneen that came through the loosers bracket to vie for the title.

Yesterday afternoon saw Aneen defeat Nantaku in two close and hotly contested games to win. Both teams played well and left shaking hands and laughing. It was a great tournament.

Thanks to CHS for sponsoring the tournament and to all the players and fans.

HOOPS' "EASY" ATHLETE

2005-12-16T16:08:00.000-08:00

Tedwin Ichiro, Etten Island, Chuuk, FSM

Tedwin Ichiro Wins 5K Bronze at the MAC

2005-12-16T16:02:00.000-08:00

The Micronesian Athletics Championships (MAC) saw a young man from Etten Island run his first ever race on a 400 meter track, and come away with a medal!

Etten Island is a small island located in Truk Lagoon. During the Japanese occupation it was quarried, flattened and turned into one of the first airfields in the Japanese Mandated Islands of Micronesia. Today people have built houses on the airstrip, the air terminal, badly damaged in the bombings that took place in WW II, is a grim reminder of how outside forces have changed the islands.

Tedwin Ichiro lives on Etten Island. He is a modest, hardworking, dedicated and very polite young man. HOOPS first saw Tedwin when he came to Weno to play in the HOOPS’ Summer Youth Basketball Tournament. As a starter for the Etten youth team he played an important part in their drive to the championship in August.

In October we saw Tedwin in a different role: middle and long distance runner, and HOOPS’ realized that this young man has a gift, and it was running. Keitani Graham spoke to Tedwin about continuing to train. Tedwin was interested.

HOOPS’ staff them sat down and discussed Tedwin and decided to make him a HOOPS EASY Athlete (EASY stands for “Elite Athletes Supporting Youth”). HOOPS’ made the commitment to provide accommodation and meals and provide funding to send Tedwin to the Micronesian Athletics Championships to be held in Saipan December 14 and 15.

Tedwin accepted the offer and moved to Weno to live and train with Keitani. Tedwin is a not only a good person with a reserved and dignified personality, but he is easy to get along with, does not engage in the consumption of betel nut, snuff, cigarettes, alcohol or drugs. Additionally, he has a willingness to train hard, listen and learn.

At the Micronesian Athletics Championships Tedwin, running for the very first time on a 400 meter track, claimed the bronze medal in the 5,000 meters.

There are many other Tedwin’s in Chuuk just waiting for the opportunity to train and compete. Unfortunately, there are no facilities for Chuuk’s athletes, and to date the new administration has not made any serious commitment to the youth of the state.

Our athletes deserve sports facilities – something that currently does not exist in Chuuk State. All they ask is that when they step up to the starting line they have had the same change to prepare as competitors from other states and nations. Will their dreams of a 400 meter track and other facilities become a reality, or will Chuuk continue to sell youth short, ignoring their potential and desires?

It is time for Chuuk’s leadership to wake up and start working to support our youth. If you give them the change, they will amaze you, just as Tedwin has done.

Congratulations to the people of Etten who made a decision to participate in the Chuuk Goodwill Games, thereby giving their youth the opportunity to complete… Finally, congratulations to Tedwin for his dedication to live a healthy lifestyle, his hard work and positive attitude that serves as an excellent role model for all of Chuuk’s youth.

2005 15/UNDER LITTLE LEAGUE BASKETBALL

2005-12-11T02:54:00.000-08:00

League Organizer Randy Nunez

2005-12-11T02:53:00.000-08:00

Coach for Tol White Rock

2005-12-11T02:52:00.000-08:00

I'm small but I can shoot!

2005-12-11T02:51:00.000-08:00

Watch everyone 'cause its going in!

2005-12-11T02:49:00.000-08:00

3-point shooting contest

2005-12-11T02:48:00.000-08:00

FSM National Basketball Player Keitani Graham with future stars

Nepukos Team Wins 15/ Under Championship

2005-12-11T02:41:00.000-08:00

Ten teams participated in the 2005 15/Under Little League Basketball league. Every Sunday youth from all over Weno met at the gym and played hoops. Today was the championship game and it was exciting.

Before the championship game, Clark Graham, HOOPS' Executive Director, spoke to the teams aboutthe importance of living a healthy and wise life. That includes not chewing betel nut or snuff, no smoking, alcohol or drugs.

Nepukos defeated the AWM Knights and the Tol White Rocks came in third. Congratulations to all teams, players, coaches, supporters, and especially and sponsor AWM.

XAVIER MEN WIN EXCITING CHAMPIONSHIP GAME

2005-12-11T02:29:00.000-08:00

Xavier time out with 10 seconds remaining

2005-12-11T02:25:00.000-08:00

CHS Boys Take Second Place

Xavier Boys Win Basktball Title

2005-12-09T13:14:00.000-08:00

Yesterday before a packed gym, the Xavier High School (XHS) boys’ team played Chuuk High School to see who would claim the 2005 crown. The game was one of the most exciting ever played in ISC competition with both teams playing hard defense, tough rebounding, and exciting mile-a-minute offense. In the end, the XHS managed to hold on for a one point victory.

Following in the wake of the XHS Lady Navigators championship, Xavier High School now hold both the men’s and women’s basketball titles.

Congratulations to the Interscholastic Sports Council and to all teams for a great season and exciting tournament. Next week the ISC plans to hold its first ever All-Star Game. Both boys and girls all star teams will be selected. Girls will play the first and third quarters, boys the second and fourth, and the combined scores of the girls and boys will determine the All-Star winner.

MAGNIFICENT SEVEN FOR MINGINFEL

2005-12-08T03:10:00.000-08:00

Manuel Minginfel placed seventh in the Weightlifting World Championships.

74th MEN'S and 17th WOMEN'S CENTENNIAL
WEIGHTLIFTING WORLD CHAMPIONSHIPS
DOHA, QATAR
08-17 November 2005
RESULTS MEN 62 kg TOTAL

Place Name Nation Result
1 QIU Le CHN 322
2 ZHANG Ping CHN 315
3 JIGAU Adrian ROM 292
4 ANGELOV Sevdalin BUL 287
5 YANG Sheng-hsiung TPE 286
6 BAZARBAEV Umurbek TKM 286
7 MINGINFEL Manuel FSM A 280 Number Seven in the World!

2005-12-07T12:57:00.000-08:00

Lady Navs Celebrate Victory

Lady Navs Claim ISC Girls Basketball Championship

2005-12-07T02:02:00.000-08:00

The first shot of the game came from the Xavier point guard who calmly dribbled to the three point line and sunk a huge shot from downtown... The third quarter started with the point guard from Saramen Chuuk Academy also stepping up and burying the three!

The lead exchanged hands numerous times with neither team giving up... gathering in big rebounds, getting tough on defense, combined with good shooting.

The crowd was large and the CHS gym noisy with applause and cheers, and it continued that way for the entire game.

Finally with three seconds left on the clock, Xavier hit a shot that gave it a two point lead and the victory.

Congratulations to Xavier and Saram for a season of exciting play and good sportsmanship.

COOPERATION IN SPORT = NATION BUILDING

2005-12-03T15:03:00.000-08:00

FILA wrestling mat will soon be in Chuuk

FSMNOC's General Secretary Assits Chuuk's Wrestling Program

2005-12-03T15:01:00.000-08:00

In 2001 Chuukese wrestlers prepared for the 2FSM Games in Yap by wrestling on tatami judo mats. Since then they've been training on a small wrestling mat. Chuuk was the only state without a regulation size mat.

At the 2005 Oceania Championships in Pohnpei the FSM Wrestling Federation agreed to give one FILA wrestling mat to Chuuuk State. However, there was one problem: transportation.

That matter was resolved when Jim Tobin visited Chuuk this week. Learning that the wrestling mat for Chuuk was badly needed, and hearing that an FSM vessel was departing Pohnpei bound for Chuuk, Jim jumped in to help.

He called Lestly at the FSMNOC office to confirm the ship schedule, he met with FSM President Urusemal and Secretary of Transportation Yatilman. They graciously agreed to send the mat on the FSM vessel free of charge.

Jim then contacted FSMNOC again and the FSMNOC staff on short notice jumped into action. Switer Daniels and family, FSMNOC staff and others volunteered their time and got the wrestling mat on the ship. The vessesl is expected in Chuuk next week with Chuuk's full-size wrestling mat.

SHIP/HOOPS and Chuuk wrestlers want to say how grateful we are for the help and hard work by everyone. KINISSOW CHAPUR VOLUNTEERS, FSMNOC, FSM PRESIDENT & SECRETARY OF TRANSPORTATION...

TENNIS CLINIC AT ANDERSEN FIELD

2005-12-03T15:00:00.000-08:00

Warwick Povey & Tennis Clinic Participants

Warwick Povey Conducts Tennis Clinic

2005-12-03T14:27:00.000-08:00

After three days of serious workshop activities, Warwick Povey was not yet done. Konwing that the Chuuk Tennis Association (CTA) was trying to develop programs and encourage youth to play tennis, he came to the Andersen Field tennis court Saturday morning and ran a tennis clinic.

This is the first tennis clinic to be offered in Chuuk in many years, but the CTA is hoping it will serve as a catalyst to get more youth involved in tennis.

Warwick provided information about basic tennis skills and also got on the court for demonstrations and work with four new youth tennis players.

Some instructors that visit the FSM from foreign countries demand that facilities meet international standards before they will visit. Warwick, like FIBA Oceania's Stuart Manwaring, love their sport and take every opportunity to share their vast knowledge and experience with others. THIS is what sport is all about.

SHIP/HOOPS extends its thanks to Warwick for "going the extra mile..." while visiting Chuuk. SHIP/HOOPS also wishes to thank the FSMNOC and the Australian Sports Commission for organizing Warwick's visit and for promoting sports through the nation.

2005-12-03T14:19:00.000-08:00

Warwick providing on-court instruction

2005-12-03T14:14:00.000-08:00

A good day for tennis.

2005-12-03T14:13:00.000-08:00

Chuuk Tennis Coaches with four young players.

2005-12-03T14:11:00.000-08:00

Warwick provides words of encouragement to Chuuk's new tennis players.

2005-12-03T14:06:00.000-08:00

Warwick working with young Chuukese tennis players

Bill Sewell Returns to Chuuk

2005-12-03T13:51:00.000-08:00

Peace Corps Volunteer, principal, baseball and basketball coach, official, special education, consultant: Bill Sewell has done them all. Recently Bill, his wife Elebie and daughter Lilly returned to Chuuk.

Bill was hired to be the consultant for Chuuk High School and already things are looking brighter for the students and community. Bill is involved in the day to day administration of the high school, his wife Elebie is one of the FSM's only female basketball officials, and Lilly is coaching the CHS girls' basketball team.

When the school day is over, you don't see Bill driving away from the CHS campus. If you want to find him you simply have to go to the gym, where he can be found working with basketball players, officiating a basketball game or making sure the gym is operating properly.

Saturday found Bill (Lilly too) doing what he loves: working with kids and making a difference in their lives.

SHIP/HOOPS' wants to take this opportunity to say, "Welcome back to the Sewells!"

2005-12-03T13:50:00.000-08:00

Bill, b/w shirt spends his day off working with kids.

2005-12-03T13:46:00.000-08:00

HOOPS' Kids: Game time!

Runners preparing for the Micronesian Athletics Championships

2005-12-03T13:41:00.000-08:00

In less than two weeks FSM athletes will travel to Saipan for the Micronesian Athletics Championships. Chuukese participants meet six times a week at Andersen Field for workouts and training. Saturday morning found them getting ready.

HOOPS' EASY (Elite Athletes Serving Youth) Athlete training hard

2005-12-03T13:39:00.000-08:00

Tedwin (EASY Athlete) continues preparing for the Micronesian Athletic Championships

2005-12-03T13:37:00.000-08:00

Efichen warming up at the field.

ISC BASKETBALL: ITS PLAYOFF TIME

2005-12-03T13:25:00.000-08:00

Referee Elibe Sewell & Joe, ISC President, take a minute to meet at center court.

XHS's Men & Women Advance to the ISC Championship

2005-12-01T02:39:00.000-08:00

Xavier's men on the fast break

2005-12-01T02:37:00.000-08:00

Lady Navs get instructions during a time out

CHUUK STATE SPORTS WORKSHOP: 11/30 - 12/2

2005-12-01T02:26:00.000-08:00

Workshop Participants

Lt. Governor Johnson Elimo Opens the Chuuk Sports Workshop

2005-12-01T02:20:00.000-08:00

"We value sport for the development of our youth."

Australian Sports Commission's Warwick Povey

2005-12-01T02:14:00.001-08:00

"Sports is like a family. It brings people together, it unites them."

Warwick Povey’s Opening Remarks

2005-12-01T02:10:00.001-08:00

Kosrae has almost concluded its sports plan, Yap has one, Pohnpei has just started and now I am in Chuuk to continue helping you complete the Chuuk State Sports Plan…

The Australian Sports Council works in the Caribbean and in Africa, but our biggest program is the South Pacific Sports Program which works with 14 countries, and we are trying to help sports develop in these countries.

I work with elite athletes program and planning. My sport is in tennis. This year we celebrate the 100th year of the Australian Open – the 100th year of this competition in Australia.

Australia and this program is to bring sports to the people in Chuuk, and throughout the FSM. The issues of sports and its development are the same throughout the Pacific and the world.

If you are all here, and you are in sports, and you contribute then we will be able to develop a good sports plan.

The Governor said that Chuuk needs to link in a “budget” to fund sports. This is needed.

Let me say that in all my work in the Pacific, this is the largest number of participants at one of my workshops. So, congratulations to Chuuk!

If I do my job, everyone here will be comfortable to share ideas about sports. Let’s begin!

2005-12-01T02:10:00.000-08:00

Warwick Povey

FSMNOC’s Secretary General Speaks to the Workshop

2005-12-01T02:06:00.000-08:00

Jim Tobin, spoke to the workshop participants about several important topics.

FSM GAMES:
Several dates for the FSM Games will be proposed. There will probably be two dates during 2006 and also the summer of 2007. The games will be held in Pohnpei.

MICRONESIAN GAMES
The dates for the Micronesian Games are June 23 – July 7, 2006 and will be held in Saipan.

TRAINING PROGRAMS FOR CHUUK
FIBA Oceania’s Zone Development Officer (ZDO) Stuart Manwaring will return to Chuuk in February to conduct coaches and officials clinics. Scheduled also are visits by weightlifting and wrestling coaches.

SPORTS ADMIINSTRATION COURSE
Another course is scheduled for February 2006. A major task will be to complete the FSM Strategic Sports Plan.

The plan will be sent to the states in December or January. Everyone is encouraged to provide input and comments. If you don’t provide input, it will be assumed you agree.
It is hoped that the FSMNOC national sports plan will be finalized in February.

TESTING OF FSM YOUTH
Plans call for youth in all four FSM states to be tested to identify individuals that may have natural athletic ability and match that youth to a sport in which she would best be suited.

GRANTS
FSMNOC has no funds for sports equipment. Mr. Tobin did say that Australia has discretionary funds grants which are approximately $3,000. - $5,000 and that Chuuk should be able to obtain several grants this year and possibly the same the following year

FSMNOC did provid $7,000. Liberation Day Games in PNI and perhaps funding can be provided for some sports activities in Chuuk.

COACHES/TRAINERS
Some demand International Standard Venues before they will come.

CHUUK MUST HAVE FACILITIES
Chuuk Must have venues: a gym & track (and other facilties).

2005-12-01T01:53:00.000-08:00

FSMNOC General Secretary Jim Tobin

Secretary of HESA Opens Second Day of the Sports Workshop

2005-12-01T01:50:00.000-08:00

The Honorable Secretary Nena Nena, of Health Education and Social Affairs (HESA), opened the second day of the sports workshop. Secretary Nena provided an insightful and important message.

He believes that the national sports plan should come from the four state plans.
He went on to say that sports plays an important role in both education and health. An effective sports program will assist the kids in school and also improves their health. It improves physical fitness, rehabilitation and helps reduce youth problems.

2005-12-01T01:46:00.000-08:00

Secretary Nena Nena

HOOPS' KIDS

2005-11-21T00:31:00.000-08:00

HOOPS' Kids come from several islands but they all have one thing in common: they like to play and basketball has become their favorite sport. Two days a week female basketball player/coaches Lilly Sewell and Raysa Chiwi meet all interested kids at the Andersen Field outdoor court for basketball drills and fun.

Last Thursday Keitani Graham, HOOPS' youth director, visited the HOOPS' kids and gave them a talk about the importance of getting along and of not using substances. His message, between jokes and giggles, was well received as the kids listened attentively.

Then it was back to the work at hand: dribbling, passing, jump stops and cutting... with more giggles and laughter... If you are on Weno Island on Tuesday or Thursday afternoons and have nothing to do, come over to the court and join HOOPS' kids.
Last Modified on 21/11/2005 02:06

2005-11-21T00:29:00.000-08:00

HOOPS' kids after basketball practice at Andersen Field

HOOPS' Volunteers: Helping our brothers and sisters at CHS

2005-11-21T00:22:00.000-08:00

Some of the Chuukese volunteers who are helping renovate the CHS Gym

HOOPS’ Youth Volunteers renovating the CHS gym

2005-11-20T06:51:00.000-08:00

Believing strongly in the right of children and young people play in healthy and safe environments, HOOPS is making a commitment to put action with words. On Friday, November 18, HOOPS’ youth volunteers and several workers from the Department of Recreation met at the CHS gym to begin cleaning and renovation work.

There are only two public gyms in Chuuk Lagoon: the CHS gym and the gym on Paata Island. The high school gym is the site of Interscholastic Sports basketball and volleyball leagues and also a place where young people from all the islands come to play and compete, testing their basketball and volleyball skills against all comers. It is where the Chuuk women’s squad practices at least twice a week. It is always busy and in use.

Working in cooperation with the CHS administration, HOOPS has made a commitment to clean and renovate the gym as part of its community service and substance and violence free sports programs.

2005-11-19T00:19:00.000-08:00

Helping renovate CHS gym for the students

2005-11-19T00:18:00.000-08:00

Volunteers pick up litter.

2005-11-19T00:14:00.000-08:00

Painting the gym's office

Chuuk State Sports Workshop

2005-11-17T04:54:00.000-08:00

On Wednesday, November 16 the Chuuk State Department of Recreation hosted a sports workshop. HOOPS executive director Clark Graham served as the facilitator for the workshop.

Participants came from the private sector, government, sports associations, officials and interested individuals. The main purpose of this workshop was to improve sports delivery in the state of Chuuk and continue the process of developing a state sports plan, something each state has been mandated to accomplish.

One of the first tasks of the workshop was to create a calendar of sports events that will take place in Chuuk in 2006 in all regions of the state and all sports.

Working on the calendar got people talking about planning and the need to have not just a one year calendar but a five year calendar of events so that everyone knew when sports activities would happen.

For example, every year in December-January the Chuuk Basketball Association plans to host the Chuuk Basketball Championships (CBC). That means that Chuuk’s five regions should be playing basketball well before the CBC – September through the first part of December - in order to select players and teams. Also, having a calendar of events also allows facilities to be utilized by all sports without conflict.

Several important topics were discussed:

The Rights of Children:
Children have the right to:
1) play in a facility that is a healthy and safe environment, and;
2) to be coached by a competent coach.

There is a a sports development triangle. A large base means lots of participants whereas a small base means fewer. This has an important impact when a state is trying to develop a team for national or international competitions such as the FSM Games and the Micronesian Games.

For example, Chuuk currently has about 40 girls playing basketball. Chuuk needs to select a women's team made up of 12 players for the Micronesian Games. That means there are not many players to choose from.

However, in Palau there are literally hundreds of young women that play basketball. This means they have more players to choose from, and the change of developing a stronger team is obvious.

There are two levels of sports play. Some people play for fun while others want to compete. Both types of play are important.
It was determined that sports should run sports and government should run government. Separation of responsibilities is a positive thing. Sports needs to be kept separate from politics and religion.

Workshop participants identified four major problems in sports in Chuuk State.

I. Poor Leadership

II. Lack of Sports Facilities
1. Land: everyone agrees that this is the major problem and one that
needs to be seriously examined and a way found to secure clear
title to land for sports facilities.
2. Lack of money for sports facilities
3. Private sector needs to become active in supporting sports and
facilities

III. Financial Problems
1. Not enough money
2. The private sector should do more to support youth and sports activities.
3. Grants need to be sought to supplement sports money.

IV. Politics
1. More support is needed from leaders throughout the state
2; People (leaders and the general community) about
the educational and health benefits of sports and exercise,
thereby showing that sports is good for the people.

Attendees generally agreed that the state sports associations needed to be more active.

There was also some discussion about the importance of women in sports, and sports for all regardless of clan, island, region, religious or political affiliation.

On November 29, Warwick Povey, ASP Elite Programs & Sport Education Officer involved in International Sports and Relations, will arrive in Chuuk. He will conduct a 3-day workshop to assist the state in finalizing its Chuuk State Sports Plan, and also advise the state’s leadership about sports governance. Chuuk is excited about this visit and looks forward to the workshop.

JEMCO says,

2005-11-10T04:59:00.000-08:00

"This is good enough for Chuukese athletes."

"Thanks JEMCO!"

2005-11-10T04:52:00.000-08:00

"Kinissow JEMCO!"

JEMCO Says No Compact Funds Can Be Used for Sports Facilities

2005-11-10T04:44:00.000-08:00

Chuuk State is known for having fast sprinters and tough distance runners. Less than a week after the conclusion of the Chuuk Goodwill Games runners met to begin training for the next competition. Several athletes have been selected to compete in the December Athletics Championships that will bring together the best runners, throwers and jumpers from 10 Micronesian entities. Others have already started preparing for the Micronesian Games to be held starting June 25th in Saipan.

These kids train hard at Andersen Field, a facility that is marginal at best. It is time for the state government to make a serious commitment to the youth of Chuuk. Sports facilities should be part of the basic infrastructure of the state, but there are several obstacles...

One major hurdle is JEMCO's refusal to consider the use of compact funds to build sports facilities. This is certainly a short sighted position and one that we can only hope will change with time. JEMCO fails to realize the social and health benefits of active and positive sports programs. While sons and daughters of JEMCO employees compete in state-of-the-art sports facilities in the USA, they deny opportunities to kids in Chuuk.

JEMCO calls for accountability and a balanced budget in Chuuk and Micronesia, which is a good thing, but exactly the same problems exist in the US government.

How can JEMCO deny Chuukese youth the opportunity to play basketball, wrestle, lift weights and run in decent facilities? For many years the United States has talked about the "Special Relationship" that exists between these two countries whose histories are intertwined.

When one considers how much the French government has contributed to New Caledonia's sports program, with great success, one can only hope that JEMCO and the US government will come to realize that by helping youth in sports they are making a positive and long term investment in the future of Micronesia.

Hopefully JEMCO's attitude will change with time.

JEMCO gets tough with Chuukese kids

2005-11-10T04:37:00.000-08:00

Chuukese kids wonder why JEMCO refuses to fund facilities for sports!

Three Women Involved in Chuuk's Basketball Program

2005-11-04T04:10:00.000-08:00

Today "Women in Sports" is more than just a phrase in Chuuk. From modest beginnings, struggles, hardships, and misunderstandings, Chuukese women are slowly starting to change the image of what basketball means. This season, there are three Chuukese women actively involved in basketball. They are featured below:

Mother-Daughter a Winning Basketball Combination

2005-11-04T04:09:00.000-08:00

Eleby Sewell is a FIBA Oceania certified referee. Bringing with her experience officiating in Guam, Micronesia and the USA, she is currently officiating in the ISC men's and women's leagues. Her presence has not only been accepted but looked forward to. She is a well respected referee.

Her daughter, Lilly Sewell, is a veteran basketball player. She represented Chuuk in the 1998 Micronesian Games in Palau, played high school basketball in Guam and also played in the USA while attending college. Lilly is the women's basketball coach at Chuuk High School.

Player/Scholar Now Coaching

2005-11-04T03:58:00.000-08:00

Raysa Chiwi, started playing basketball in 2000. She first represented her state at the 2001 FSM Games in Yap where she helped Team Chuuk bring home a silver medal. She has gone on to compete for Chuuk in the Micronesian Games and Guam's MBT2004 Basketball Tournament. This year Raysa was selected to the FSM national basketball team that traveled to Palau for the Mini SPG Games.

Although only 18, she holds an AS degree from the College of Micronesia. She is a teacher at Weno High School and is coaching the girls' basketball team.

Chuuk is very proud of these women who are setting new standards and proving, through their efforts and hard work, the words of Dr. James Naismith, the inventor of basketball, who said, "Basketball is an ideal sport for women."

Look for more women to become active in basketball in Chuuk and throughout Micronesia.

New Officers for Chuuk Basketball Association (CBA)

2005-11-04T03:56:00.000-08:00

The Chuuk Basketball Association (CBA) met today and elected new officers. They are:
President: Ignasio Stephen
Vice President: Aster Aritos
Secretary: Clark Graham
Treasurer: Kent Joker
Competition Secretary: Lilly Sewell

After officers were elected the board discussed several important matters. First on the list was the CBA State Basketball Championship scheduled to start in December and continue into January.

The CBA is seeking coaches for the state men's and women's basketball teams. Applications can be picked up at the Chuuk Department of Recreation. The last day to submit applications is November 25th.

The board also discussed the next ZDO visit schduled for February. The board agreed that it was important to take advantage of Stuart Manwaring's visit to upgrade officials and coaches.

GOOD WILL GAMES A ROARING SUCCESS

2005-10-28T18:47:00.000-07:00

On October 14th and 15th five teams came together for the 2005 Chuuk Goodwill Games: Chuuk State’s Athletics Championships. It had been several years since this event had been held, and everyone was anxious to see Chuuk’s runners, throwers and jumpers perform. In all, more than 1,000 athletes would compete in this two day event.

Goodwill Games organizers declared the games “Substance & Violence Free.” For the first time ever, the control booth was smoke and substance free. Through the two days of competition, the announcer would remind competitors and spectators that sports should be substance and violence free.

FEFAN ISLAND
Coming down from Guam were brothers Jack and John Howard to run for Fefen Island. John holds the Micronesian record for 100 meters and Jack is the second fastest. Efichen, holder of the fastest FSM time in the 100 meters for women, her sister Epi, middle distance runner Edibo, Odysus.

WENO ISLAND
Weno had longtime runner Tonis Rudolph, female sprinter Twinsann Sam back from an injury, decathlete Keitani Graham, young sprinters Abram and Tete and several young middle distance runners, and long distance runner Puna (1998 silver medalist in the 5K and 10K at the 1998 Micro Games in Palau)…

THREE SMALL BUT MIGHTY TEAMS
Etten and Parem were newcomers to the Goodwill Games and the Mortlocks brought a few but determined competitors.

Outstanding performances were recorded in several events including the 1,500m, and 5K races, the marathon and the always exciting relays. Not all events had championships. However, champions of note are:

CHAMPIONS
100 meters
M John (Fefan)
W Efichen (Fefan)

200 meters
M Jack (Fefan)
W Efichen (Fefan)

1,500 Meters
M Tedwin (Etten)

5,000 meters
M Tedwin (Etten)

10,000 meters
M Tedwin (Etten)

Half-Marathon
M Puna (Weno)

Pentathlon
M Keitani (Weno)
F Beba (Weno)

Long Jump
M Bernor (Fefan)
F (Fefan)

Javelin
M Keitani (Weno)

Triple Jump
M Bernor (Fefan)
F Ginger (Weno)

Discus
M Keitani (Weno)

Shot Put
M Keitani (Weno)
F (Etten)

Had you been present at this event you would have marveled at the friendliness and positive attitudes of the participants and spectators. The games were a roaring success and one can only say,

“Congratulations Chuuk State! You have tremendous athletes with great potential.”

A special thanks must go to the following people:
• Julio Akapito, President of the FSM Athletics Federation for serving as the competition director. Without his expertise and assistance the games would not have been so well organized and run.
• Sichuo: the “Marathon Man” from Tolowas who in the past thrilled us so many times with his feats of long distance running.
• All volunteers who served as referees, umpires, judges, timers and assistants.
• All coaches for their time and hard work to train the athletes.
• Parents and the community who fed and supported their teams.
• The youth of Chuuk! Our pride and our future! They did not disappoint.
Watching our experienced athletes perform one could not help but be proud of their athleticism and achievements… Seeing our young girls run with determination assures us of success in the future.

Chuuk is blessed to have such children, and we must be ever vigilant to make certain that we provide them with the opportunities and facilities so they may perform to their maximum potential.

CHUUK GOODWILL GAMES

2005-10-28T13:53:00.000-07:00

Let the Games Begin!

2005-10-28T13:52:00.000-07:00

HOOPS: Guiding youth through sports.

2005-10-28T13:50:00.000-07:00

Chuukese love Athletics!

2005-10-28T13:46:00.000-07:00

Great Competitor, Great Coach!

2005-10-28T13:45:00.000-07:00

We are runners too!

2005-10-28T13:43:00.000-07:00

We're from Chuuk!

2005-10-28T13:40:00.000-07:00

Chuuk Pentathletes: All Winners & Friends

2005-10-28T13:38:00.000-07:00

Curtis & Steve

Showing them the way...

2005-10-28T13:35:00.000-07:00

Retired runner returns to race with youngsters.

2005-10-28T13:33:00.000-07:00

"How's It" from Parem Island

2005-10-28T13:32:00.000-07:00

Etten Coach and Champion

2005-10-28T13:30:00.000-07:00

Tol Youth: Field Events Assistant

2005-10-28T13:28:00.000-07:00

Weno middle distance runner in the lead

2005-10-28T13:27:00.000-07:00

Sichuo: Chuuk's Marathon Man

Remembering Ethiopia's Shoeless Marathoner

2005-10-28T13:23:00.000-07:00

Chuuk's Marathon, 10K & 5 K runners compete on the road without shoes.

2005-10-28T13:19:00.000-07:00

Female Javelin Thrower

2005-10-28T13:17:00.000-07:00

Men's Javelin Champion!

2005-10-28T13:15:00.000-07:00

Etten wins women's shot put. "Fefin ir mei pwan togeni!"

2005-10-28T13:11:00.000-07:00

Etten Shot Put Thrower

2005-10-28T13:09:00.000-07:00

Born to run!

2005-10-28T13:08:00.000-07:00

Twinsann Sam turns the corner in the lead

2005-10-28T13:06:00.000-07:00

Issu: Fefan Wins Their Heat

2005-10-28T13:04:00.000-07:00

Weno Relay Team: Fast Friends!

2005-10-28T13:03:00.000-07:00

Waiting for the baton!

2005-10-28T12:58:00.000-07:00

Small? Yes. Fast? You bet!

2005-10-28T12:55:00.000-07:00

Give me the baton and let me run!

2005-10-28T12:52:00.000-07:00

Girls 400 meters