By: Laurel Marewibuel
KOROR, Palau — “Seeing them not giving up after multiple mistakes and the positive attitude they show to keep pushing and trying is more rewarding and inspiring,” said lead coach Saki Naivana, reflecting on the month-long Breakthrough Volleyball Camp that concluded Saturday, October 18, at the Koror Elementary School Gym.
The camp, organized by the Breakthrough Volleyball Club, drew more than 30 young athletes ages 6 to 17 for four weeks of training focused on skill development, health, teamwork, and leadership. Naivana said the program’s philosophy was to “help individuals discover their gifts so they can pass it on to others.”
Players were grouped by skill level after the first week to ensure balanced instruction and personalized learning. “This helps us control and balance individual learning abilities and experience,” Naivana explained. Practices were held at Ngermalk Long Island Park and the Koror Elementary Gym, providing a safe and encouraging space for players to grow.
To keep sessions engaging, beach volleyball drills and fun games followed each training period. Coaches emphasized discipline, patience, and consistency while motivating participants to support one another.
Beyond physical training, the camp placed equal emphasis on character development. “We coaches do less helping; we focus more on guiding them,” Naivana said. “They need to learn to be responsible and accept responsibility. We set goals for the week and focus for the day.” Camp rules, he added, reinforced responsibility, leadership, and teamwork.
Each day began and ended with a group prayer, grounding the camp in values of community and respect.
Naivana said he hopes the program’s impact will extend beyond volleyball. “I hope and pray that the program will not only allow our youth to learn the game of volleyball but may it shine a light within them to discover their potential and purpose in life,” he said.
The Breakthrough Volleyball Club expressed gratitude to players, parents, families, coaches, the Palau volleyball community, Teacher Mamoru, Koror Elementary School, and the Koror State Government for their support. Encouraged by the turnout and enthusiasm, organizers said they plan to host more camps in the future.