The Troy and Theodora Polamalu Foundation’s Fa’a Samoa Initiative had its opening day yesterday at the Department of Youth and Women’s Affairs new gymnasium in Pago Pago, with over 200 athletes from across the island that included high school and elementary school football players along with high school and elementary volleyball players.

This year’s three tiered initiative will include a medical mission and an academic component, along with football and volleyball camps. The initiative will also include more than 150 National Football League (NFL) players, professional volleyball players, coaches, medical and academic professionals and volunteers.

Giving brief statements were Troy Polamalu and his wife Theodora, who both thanked the supporters and countless volunteers in this cause that they both truly believe in.

The initiative has partnered with the Orphaned Starfish Foundation in order to establish a Computer Training Center at the DYWA gymnasium, where the youth can advance their technological skills. 

Throughout this week, the academic camp will be held at Samoana High School, while the football camp will be taking place at the Sports Complex Veterans Memorial Stadium.

Volleyball camps will be held at the American Samoa Community College gymnasium and at the DYWA gymnasium in Pago Pago.

The football and volleyball camps will not only have high schools kids involved, they will also have elementary students, with the NFL Play 60 for 6-11 year olds and a camp for the American Youth Football Samoa players as well. The volleyball camps will also have camps for elementary aged school students (8-15 year olds).

Some of the student athletes and parents told Samoa News that they are very happy and thankful for Troy and Theodora Foundation's Fa’a Samoa Initiative. “Thank you Fa’a Samoa Initiative for caring about our kids and thank you for caring about the future of American Samoa,” said one parent.

Camps are slated to start at different times in the morning each day, and times are noted in ads elsewhere in Samoa News. Parents are encouraged to come out and watch their children participate in the camps.

Keep reading Samoa News for the latest updates on this year’s exciting Troy and Theodora Foundation Fa’a Samoa Initiative.