By: Summer Kennard
Koror, Palau — Amid the cheers of competition and the pursuit of gold, Team Palau athletes are finding something just as valuable at the Pacific Mini Games 2025: camaraderie, support, and renewed focus inside their temporary home — the athlete village at Meyuns Elementary School.
For 17-year-old wrestler Filomoto, living in the village has provided more than just a place to sleep.
“I feel really good about it,” he said. “Being surrounded by people going through similar experiences—sharing struggles. When I wake up in the morning, it reminds me that others are also here pushing themselves and working.”
The shared living space, structured with designated quiet times and a team-oriented atmosphere, is helping athletes zero in on performance.
“Lights out definitely helps. Isolation helps me think about the games and keeps me in the spirit of it,” Filomoto said. “I definitely feel supported—from the food to the support systems. It’s just good to be around fellow athletes.”
The sentiment is echoed by many of Palau’s first-time national athletes, like a 17-year-old Va’a paddler, who appreciates the uplifting environment.
“It’s very nice. We get to meet other athletes from our own team and support them during their games,” the paddler said. “We’re all the same in different ways. We all want to win.”
Lights-out policy, which ensures early rest, has also proven helpful for many.
“Lights out really works,” the paddler added. “When you see other athletes sleeping, it lets you know it’s okay to sleep too. That’s important. Although the mattresses could be better, athlete sleep is crucial.”
Olympian swimmer Sean, who previously competed in the 2015 Pacific Games in Papua New Guinea, knows the value of adapting quickly to village life.
“This isn’t my first athlete village, so I’ve learned to adapt,” he said. “I’d rather be here than at home because I get to see everyone and be with my teammates.”
The communal setup fosters encouragement, collaboration, and team bonding.
“Living with my teammates gives me a chance to collaborate and cheer each other on,” Sean said. “The best part? Air conditioning.”
Despite the usual growing pains in the first few days—adjusting to shared spaces and basic accommodations—athletes agree the experience is overwhelmingly positive.
“Everyone honestly had good things to say,” said one coach. “The first few days are always rough, but then people adapt, and it all just becomes fun.”
As the Pacific Mini Games continue, it’s clear that the athlete village is more than just a dormitory — it’s a place where champions are not only made, but supported every step of the way.