Cook Islands National Volleyball mens and womens teams left for Tahiti in the weekend to compete in the Matariki Cup Challenge against Aotearoa Māori Poirewa and Volleyball Tahiti from December 9 to 14.

This tournament was hosted by Cook Islands Volleyball Federation (CIVF) for the past two years in Rarotonga, and this is the 3rd year in Tahiti.

Jackie Rongo (CIVF Development Coordinator) said Hawai'i will potentially join next year and possibly host but this is to be confirmed. 

Rongo said the intention of this tournament was to link the Polynesian connections between players of these places and promote a cultural exchange.  

"Development and capacity building has been our focus for this particular tournament.  It's a young management team as well as players who have been selected. I'm super excited of the progress the teams have made since trials in July! No matter the results, it will be an incredible experience for them all to experience next level match play internationally."

Dr Teina Rongo of Kōrero o te 'Ōrau who is the major sponsor for this team participating in this tournament said: "We are proud to be a major sponsor for this team going to Tahiti to foster a cultural connection between us, Tahiti, and Aotearoa and hopefully Hawai'i in the future. 

“This is in line with our 'Ātui'anga ki te Tango programme and values we promote. The majority of the players who made this national side are from our AKTT Volleyball programme, and it's been amazing to see their progress over time."

Kōrero o te 'Ōrau management team: Tiare Karaponga (Team Manager), Myria Rongo (Asst. Team Manager), Nicolea Mateariki (Cultural Liaison/Media), Sidney Mousio Fimone (Media/Asst Team Manager)

Men's team: Rui David (Coach)- Tikove Piira (Captain), Daniel Koteka, Ryan Grapes, Nicholson, Tokoa Repaio (non-traveling), Kieran Uritaua (non-traveling), Tepa Kelly, Jacques Koteka, Mairi Neiao, Te-ati Motu (Co-Captain), Aaron Vigo, Tokoa Sherwin, Te Koha Kahurangi Henare (non-traveling).

Women's team: Liam Clegg (Coach)- Twina Tangirere (Captain), Konini Rongo, Raetea Rongo, Alanna Smith, Tuaana Mitchell (Co-Captain), Eclipse Tuteru, Elizabeth Akaruru, Tekura Tamangaro, Jasmine Teulilo, Amanda Auora, Lina Porio (non-traveling).

Supporting partners: Kōrero o te 'Ōrau and Vodafone Cook Islands. CIVF