Story and photos By Wanda White Eyes
Transcribed by Juan Ysaguirre

In early October, the Salt River Pima-Maricopa Indian Community seniors traveled to Pala, California, in northern San Diego County, to compete in a chair volleyball tournament hosted by the Pala Band of Mission Indians. The following is a write-up about the event from SRPMIC senior chair volleyball athlete Wanda White Eyes. 

This chair volleyball tournament was held from September 30 to October 3. Participating chair volleyball athletes from the SRPMIC traveled over by charter bus on the early morning of September 30. There were 19 tribes and 42 teams total. All teams had their pool play schedule and the court to play on eight courts total. We arrived in Pala at about 4:30 a.m. and checked into our rooms; later we went to the team registration. Also, there was a welcoming dinner with raffle prizes. 

On Tuesday, October 1, our day started with breakfast at 6 a.m. Pool play began at 8 a.m. and lasted until the afternoon. At 6:30 p.m., there was a Halloween party outdoors by the pool with food, drinks and more. 

On Wednesday, they had a blind volleyball tournament for both men’s and women’s teams. It was a mini tournament. There was also a slot tournament for any men and women who wanted to enter. 

Thursday began with breakfast at 8 a.m. Lunch was from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Also on Thursday, our Salt River teams were defeated by strong teams.

We all had a great time seeing our old friends and meeting new ones. Thank you, Pala! And to all the teams that did a great job on their games, thank you!