Our Team
Publisher: John Pulega
Talofa lava (hello), I was born and raised in Pago Pago, American Samoa for 19 years until I decided to serve in the United States Military. It has been four years since I've been in the military and so far, I have lived in a total of five states and one country. My time in the military has taught me perseverance, leadership, loss, and obedience. It has also taught me the importance of a village and community.
But before I became a US soldier, I was first a young Samoan kid on the island. I attended Samoana High School for 4 years and joined the military immediately after graduating. I have played different sports growing up (volleyball, rugby, basketball, boxing, etc.,). Although I enjoy playing different sports, I have grown to love it even more while watching and analyzing it. I want to note that writing isn't my strongest suit, however, my passion for sports is what led me to create this blog.
I aspire to provide exposure for young student athletes merely because they deserve and need it for their future. So many times, a lot of Polynesian student athletes, especially one's living in American Samoa, don't receive any exposure and recognition for their hard work and dedication to their passion sport. I have made it a goal of mine to provide exposure, and most importantly, representation to my Pacific Island people.
Editor: Valomanaia Elizarraraz
Talofa lava (hello), I was born and raised in American Samoa for 19 years and moved to Washington State for college. I attended the University of Washington, Tacoma and received my Bachelors degree in ethnic studies in 2023. I decided to further my education by studying Strategic Communications as a Masters Program.
I have been playing volleyball since I was a little girl in American Samoa. My mom is an avid volleyball player and instilled the interest into me. These experiences that were once difficult eventually grew to become one of my most special and enjoyable memories.
I want to see my community thrive. A majority of Pacific Islanders either join the military or play sports. Although plenty of them become student athletes, most of them don't actually pursue a lifelong career in the major leagues. We believe one of the reasons include a lack of recognition and publicity. Pacific Islanders are talented and deserve recognition and representation. Tautua Multi-Sport was created for this exact reason. We want to highlight Pacific Islanders and their passion for the sports they play. Most Pacific Islanders don't receive the privilege of attending higher education. This is the least we can do for our community.