Days before our championship game between Fagaitua and Tafuna we were told through the media that all sports games were canceled due to a recent fight between Leone and Tafuna, which meant that our Girls Basketball Championship game was now canceled.
Therefore, we are writing this letter to acknowledge those in our team that we feel deserve recognition.
First, our Head Coach, Tuiaua Pio Grohse for pushing us to the top with 9 wins and 1 loss. Even though you were busy with your rugby team (Aua) and boys basketball team you made time for us girls.
We vote you the Coach of the Year (Girls basketball)! We loved having our Uncle as our coach ... even though you got our names mixed up at times. Second, to our daddy, Alataua Fanene for making trips home to train us hard on our foot work, our shooting and diet.
You are the #1 Daddy Coach! Our Mamas in the canteen who fed us before every game and cheered for us when no one showed up— Eve and Pele. You two are the greatest.
To Pooch who kept us on track, scolded us when needed and advised us on sportsmanship conduct— thanks a bunch. Our team family that makes each game, Auntie Pam and Paul Von Dincklage, Leutele and Auntie Christie Grohse, and cousin Lava and baby Camille.
Also, to our Mother, Salote Fanene, the one person who seems to worry if we have our uniforms, sees that we are at practice, does all the paper work, checks our grades, plus the JV Coach, you can rest now and we love you.
We are happy to share the JV Title with our friends from Samoana and Leone— a 3-way tie. Wow!
Everyone was just awesome this year. We also say good job to Leone’s Varsity for making that last game challenging and taking that win over us. Tafuna Warriors, congrats on making it to the top and let’s hold up that Championship title together!
As sisters we want to say to our Varsity lady Vikings: Cori Grohse, Pauline Von Dincklage, Pam Von Dincklage, Adrianna Marrero, Deborah Misiaita, Shanique Scanlan, Talilagi Lotoa and Farah Malaki— We are the Champions! We had a great time and we love you all.
Your Viking sisters,
Aigalesala and Vatau Fanene
