Mix Pac were crowned the 2024 Cook Islands Beach Games Volleyball competition men’s champions on Saturday at the Nikao Beach Courts.

The women’s title went to Bounty Spikers who defended their title after winning the competition last year.

The beach volleyball competition marked the conclusion of this year’s beach games, which came to a close on Saturday.

Bounty Spikers’ Alanna Smith said she enjoyed the beach volleyball competition.

“It’s always a good vibe with the sand setting alongside good music playing. I was really impressed with the talent in women’s competition particularly with the younger players coming through,” Smith said.

“I take my hat off to my Bounty Spikers maidens who played some good composed and controlled sets. Especially Fiona Matutu who took to the beach court six weeks postpartum and is still making some impressive spikes and aces on the serve.”

Back-to-back women’s Beach Volleyball champions Bounty Spikers. SUPPLIED / 24012241

Kōrero o te ‘Ōrau’s ‘Ātui’anga ki te Tango (AKTT) returned to the beach volleyball tournament this year after missing out last year.

The young side claimed second and third places in the men’s divisions and third and fifth places in the women’s division.

Kōrero o te ‘Ōrau secretary Jackie Rongo said she was really proud of their students.

Kōrero o te ‘Ōrau’s ‘Ātui’anga ki te Tango (AKTT) teams at the beach volleyball competition. SUPPLIED/24011960

“They train hard indoors to upskill and improve because they love volleyball as much as I do. Outdoor is a little different as you have to change your timing jumping on sand versus hard courts.”

Rongo said in AKTT, volleyball is just one aspect of their holistic programme that encompasses spiritual, mental, physical, and emotional development.

“Volleyball brings so many great values of discipline, respect, loyalty, hard work and results if they embrace commitment. I also push clean habits, and I hope and pray this is sinking in so they learn how to take better care of their minds and bodies.

“We certainly have room to improve and will keep chasing excellence.”

The team acknowledged Cook Islands Sports and National Olympic Committee (CISNOC) and the Cook Islands Volleyball Federation for supporting youth development.

Meanwhile, the prize giving for the 2023 Cook Islands Beach Games will be held today at 5pm at the Nikao Beach Courts.