THE athletes of Team Marianas were acknowledged and recognized for their contributions, hard work, and efforts during the 2025 Pacific Mini Games held in Palau, at an appreciation ceremony hosted by the Northern Marianas Sports Association at the Gilbert C. Ada Gymnasium on Thursday night.
The event honored Team Marianas’ athletes, team officials, and technical staff for proudly representing the NMI in the 2025 Pacific Mini Games. The celebration brought together community leaders, proud sponsors, family members, and supporters to recognize the team’s incredible dedication and accomplishments.
Leading the remarks was Chef de Mission Nick Gross, who delivered a heartfelt and inspiring address to Team NMI, their families, coaches, sponsors, and supporters. He celebrated the delegation’s outstanding performance at the 12th Pacific Mini Games in Palau, highlighting their haul of 10 gold, 8 silver, and 13 bronze medals, along with 41 new national records and numerous personal bests — marking one of the most successful Pacific Mini Games campaigns in Team Marianas’ history.
Gross emphasized the importance of sustaining momentum, urging athletes and supporters to remain engaged: to stay hungry, give back, coach, officiate, and continue supporting the sporting movement — especially during challenging economic and political times for the CNMI.
He also praised the youth component of the Mini Games, recognizing the inclusion of U19 athletes as a critical investment in the future of sports in the region. Gross commended coaches, managers, and officials for their behind-the-scenes contributions and encouraged veteran athletes to take on mentorship and leadership roles.
In addition, Gross expressed deep gratitude to sponsors, families, and the community and reminded everyone that the next challenge — the 2027 Pacific Games in Tahiti — is just around the corner.
Also delivering remarks were Gov. David M. Apatang, athlete representatives from each sport, and NMSA President Jerry Tan.
Highlighting the event was the awarding of incentives to medalists, athletes, and officials — an initiative spearheaded by the Tan Siu Lin Foundation.
Team Marianas athletes look on as Chef de Mission Nick Gross (not in photo) shares his opening remarks during the appreciation ceremony hosted by the Northern Marianas Sports Association on Thursday at the Ada gym.
Photo by James F. Sablan Jr.
CNMI officials, led by Gov. David M. Apatang, along with NMSA board members and sponsors, observe a moment of silence in honor of the late Gov. Arnold I. Palacios.
Photo by James F. Sablan Jr.
Indoor Volleyball’s Jasmine John shares her remarks.
Photo by James F. Sablan Jr.
Athletics’ Simon Tang shares his remarks.
Photo by James F. Sablan Jr.
