merican Samoa’s Young Athletes Heading to International Competitions
Pago Pago, American Samoa – A combined effort by the American Samoa Baseball Association and the 64 Volleyball Club is bringing the community together to support youth athletes with a special Youth Benefit Concert on Saturday, December 14th, 2024. The event will take place at Diwa in Tafuna, with doors opening at 5 PM and the show starting at 6 PM.
This exciting concert aims to raise $80,000 to fund two major trips: sending under-16 and under-12 baseball teams to New Zealand and the 64 Volleyball Club to Hawaii in January 2025.
The event will feature performances by five celebrated local artists who have gained fame on TikTok and other platforms, including Umu Track, Shorty Kap, Kiva, Luis on the Track, and Sinapi. Adding to the star-studded lineup is special guest and former heavyweight boxing legend, David Tua, who will be in attendance to show his support.
Tickets are available now:
- Advance Purchase: $25
- At the Door: $30
Advance tickets can be purchased at various stores across Tutuila and Manu’a or through participating parents and players.
Supporting Youth Athletics and Opportunities
“Opportunities like these are rare,” said Trudy Ledoux, executive director of the OCD Foundation and newly elected Faipule for Pago Pago. “This trip is about more than competition—it’s about exposure, growth, and laying the foundation for future athletic scholarships.”
The trip to New Zealand marks a significant milestone for baseball in American Samoa, continuing the vision of the late Tony Solaita to sustain baseball in the territory. “This is a community effort,” added Ledoux. “When we all pull together, we can make dreams happen for our youth.”
Ben Sauvao, Faipule-elect and longtime youth advocate, has played a pivotal role in revitalizing local sports programs, including Little League and the Babe Ruth League. He emphasized the importance of the community's support, saying, “Every dollar donated is an investment in our youth and their futures.”
A Community United
In addition to the concert, ongoing fundraising efforts include weekly car washes in front of CBT in Tafuna. Businesses, sponsors like Blue Sky, and local leaders such as Governor Lemanu and Lieutenant Governor Talauega are lending their support to this cause.
This is not just about funding a trip; it’s about creating opportunities for American Samoa’s talented young athletes to shine on an international stage.
For more information or to contribute, contact Faiupule Elects Ben Sauvao or Trudy Ledoux through the American Samoa Baseball Association or the 64 Volleyball Club.
Don’t miss your chance to support our youth and enjoy an evening of music, entertainment, and community spirit. Join us at the Youth Benefit Concert on December 14th and help make these dreams a reality!
About the Event
Date: Saturday, December 14th, 2024
Location: DYWA, Tafuna
Doors Open: 5 PM
Showtime: 6 PM – 9 PM
Tickets: $25 advance, $30 at the door
For tickets, visit participating stores or contact players, parents, and coaches directly.
