By: Summer Kennard
Koror, Palau — With just 10 days left until the 2025 Pacific Mini Games begin on June 30, members of Team Palau’s indoor volleyball squads are training hard and dreaming big, united by a shared love for the sport and a determination to compete with pride.
From seasoned veterans to first-time national players, the 24-member indoor volleyball team is focused on one goal: bringing home a medal. Training has intensified, spirits are high, and hopes are set on delivering strong performances before a home crowd.
Fifteen-year-old Reese K.R. Polycarp, a defensive specialist, is among the youngest on the girls’ team but brings infectious energy and confidence to her first national-level competition.
“I know it’s gonna be fun,” she said. “Our goal is to be first place.”
Reese, who was inspired by Palau’s run toward championships at the Micronesian Games in Majuro, says she mentally prepares by slowing down and refocusing before practice.
Lily Kerradel, the girls’ team captain and a middle blocker with years of experience, describes her team as “energetic, lovable, and good attitude.” She says success means more than just winning.
“Success to me is always playing volleyball with heart and being a role model for the younger kids,” said Kerradel. This year, the girls have ramped up training with strength and conditioning, refining their techniques and fixing even the smallest mistakes. “Our coach’s goal has been pushing us for gold, and that is a goal we all share,” she added.
Head coach Francis Vicente, a certified FIVB Level 2 and 3 instructor, brings decades of experience to the court and has been instilling his core coaching philosophy of “Love, Commitment, and Passion.”
“Our goal is to be on the podium,” Vicente said. “Hard work achieves that goal. When you see your athletes improve—not just how they play, but how they carry themselves—you see your hard work reflect.”
On the boys’ team, Moritong Taro, a longtime beach volleyball player, is making his indoor volleyball debut on the national stage. As team captain, he leads with humility.
“To always stay humble,” he said when asked about his expectations. “In tough moments, it’s about communication and going back to basics.” Music helps him relax and reset before practice.
Sixteen-year-old outside hitter Kltang Taitoa Rudolph shares a similar mindset. New to international competition, he acknowledges the challenges but remains focused.
“I expect tall people who are good at volleyball,” he joked, “but my goal is to do my best for my team.” Like his teammate, he calms his nerves with music or guitar and prepares by focusing on the fundamentals. He describes his team as “fun, amazing, funny.”
Despite their varied backgrounds and experience levels, the indoor volleyball athletes are united in purpose: to represent Palau with dignity, strength, and determination. As the host nation of the Pacific Mini Games, they hope to deliver not just victories, but also inspiration to future players watching from the stands.
“Volleyball is not just a game—it’s about heart, teamwork, and pushing each other to be better,” said Vicente. “That’s what this team represents.”