Australia and Vanuatu emerged as champions in the beach volleyball events at the 2025 Pacific Mini Games, held in Palau. Displaying resilience and technical aptitude, both nations seized gold in the women’s and men’s categories respectively, showcasing their regional dominance in the sport.

Women’s Finals: Vanuatu's Unstoppable Streak

The Vanuatu team, made up of Majabelle Lawac and Sherysyn Toko, demonstrated exceptional form throughout the tournament. They maintained a flawless record, not dropping a single set in four matches. In the gold medal final, they secured a 2-0 victory against Australia's Jasmine Rayner and Kayla Mears with set scores of 22-20 and 21-18.

The bronze medal went to Guam’s Austia Mendiola and Kristen Serrano, who triumphed over Wallis & Futuna’s Gladys Pressence and Tekela Fiafialoto.

Men’s Finals: Australia’s Impressive Run

On the men’s side, Australia’s Finley Bennett and Jed Walker delivered a standout performance, winning all six of their matches in straight sets. Their consistency was on display in the final where they overcame Northern Mariana Islands’ Logan Jon Mister and Andrew Scott Johnson with identical 21-18 set wins.

Fiji’s Sakiusa Naivana Vaka and Wilisoni Loga rounded out the podium, earning bronze with a decisive win over Tahiti’s Hevanoa Vaki and Rautini Cary.

Development and Impact

These exceptional results underscore the growing investment and development in beach volleyball across Oceania. Both Australia and Vanuatu have benefited from the FIVB’s Volleyball Empowerment initiative, which provides strategic support in coaching and equipment to foster local talent and elevate the competitive level.

With enthusiasm for beach volleyball on the rise in the Pacific region, the 2025 Pacific Mini Games served as a testament to the sport’s expanding talent base and potential.

For more information, visit the official article on the FIVB website.