First Annual Akimel O’odham Pee Posh Elder Chair Volleyball Tournament

Joseph Morales

GRIN Intern

Elders from the Gila River Indian Community and other tribal communities throughout the country gathered to compete in the first annual Akimel O’odham Pee Posh Invitational Elder Chair Volleyball Tournament, hosted by the Community’s Tribal Recreation & Wellness Program at Gila River Resorts & Casinos - Wild Horse Pass, from July 24-26.

The tournament featured 32 teams competing, half of which represented the Gila River Indian Community. Last year’s tournament featured 24 teams.

“I’m just so proud of all the staff,” said Gov. Stephen Roe Lewis. “I’m proud that Gila River is able to do this. We’re seeing a lot more great tournaments that provide fellowship for our elders.”

For the championship games, the silver bracket final had the team’ Lighting and Thunder’ from the Salt River Pima-Maricopa Indian Community face off against ‘Once Wild’. The game concluded with Once Wild becoming the Silver Champions.

The gold bracket final saw the ‘Jackrabbits’ of District 1—Blackwater compete against the ‘Pala Turtles’ of the Pala Band of Mission Indians in southern California. When time concluded, the Pala Turtles were the gold champions, with the Jackrabbits as the runners-up.

First-place teams received a champion’s trophy and medal along with a banner, and second-place teams were presented with a runners-up trophy and medal.

“We appreciate you all coming out,” said Lt. Gov. Antone, who thanked the organizers and sponsors for the tournament.

The tournament concluded with lunch and giveaways as teams look forward to next year’s invitational.

“Next year we’re going to be bigger and hopefully better,” said Duane Huey Guy, sports coordinator with the Tribal Recreation & Wellness Program.