Eight months after a runner-up finish in the inaugural 17 & Under Games (17U Games), Chuuk Girls High School achieved a remarkable redemption 12-months later. Representing the State of Chuuk, the girls side dominated the second 17U Games in Pohnpei, Federated States of Micronesia (FSM) with a decisive 3-0 series victory, proving that with teamwork, discipline, and determination, anything can be achieved.

“Winning the 17U Games this time feels incredible, especially now that we are representing the entire state,” said Power Forward Awleen Werner. 

“It shows how hard we trained and how far we can go when we work together.”

“We didn’t win at the first 17U Games, but that only pushed us to do better,” said Chuuk Girls Basketball Team Captain and this year’s Most Valuable Player, Amy Aritos. 

“I am happy and proud we took home the championship this year. This is an exciting moment for all of us.”

The 17U and Holiday Games, spearheaded by the Department of Health and Social Affairs (DHSA), highlight the importance of athletics, particularly for the young women of FSM. The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) Pacific Office shares this vision, viewing these tournaments as a crucial platform to hone skills, boost the confidence of young women athletes, and foster camaraderie among players across the states. 

Through the Strengthening Gender Machinery (GM) Project, UNDP has been instrumental in enabling the Chuuk Girls High School team to compete in the Holiday Games. This year at the 17U Games, UNDP recognized their hard work and excellence through sponsorship arrangements.

“UNDP's work on gender equality strives to build a society where opportunities are accessible to everyone, regardless of age, gender, race, or ethnicity,” said Kevin Petrini, UNDP Deputy Resident Representative in the North Pacific, during a gathering with the team and staff. 

“This includes empowering women and girls in all aspects of life—education, employment, decision-making, and, as we witnessed today, in sports. We are proud to support such a talented group of young athletes on their path to excellence.”

Supported by the India-UN Development Partnership Fund, the GM Project in the FSM, in collaboration with DHSA, strives to elevate women and girls through policy advocacy, addressing structural barriers, promoting women’s leadership, initiating income-generating projects, and improving access to essential small-scale infrastructures. It works with traditional and community leaders in key sectors across the states of Yap, Chuuk, Pohnpei, and Kosrae. It also supports initiatives that provide women and girls opportunities to engage in activities like sports that contribute to personal development and overall well-being.