Hakena is Oceania U14 champ

PAPUA New Guinea’s top ranked Under-14 girl’s tennis player Colita Hakena is the new Pacific Oceania Junior Champion after defeating Tahiti’s Mia Chang in the finals yesterday.
Hakena was among a group of seven juniors who departed two weeks ago represent PNG and the West Pacific Region in the 2023 Pacific Oceania Junior Championships that was hosted in Lautoka, Fiji.
Hakena’s mum Dianna Hasavi said: “As parents, we are overflowing with emotions and bursting with pride as we reflect on Colita’s remarkable achievement in winning the U14 girls singles title at the Pacific Oceania Junior Championships. Words cannot fully express the depth of joy and happiness that fills our hearts.
“Last year Coco (Colita) competed in the championship and won the U12 girls singles title and the doubles with teammate Adelaide Mesa, so this isn’t her first.”
Colita took over in the second and third sets (2, 6, 10) defeating last year’s U14 singles top ranked Chang to a tough set (6, 2, 8) in the end.
Meanwhile in other finals fixtures, the U12 girls team ranked eighth in their division while Lae-based John-Louie Domalaon secured the 10th spot in the U14 boys singles while Colita’s older brother Sugar-Ray secured the fifth spot in the U16 boys singles.
“Seeing Colita and Sugar-Ray step onto the court with determination, focus and an unwavering belief in themselves fills us with immense pride,” she said.
“Their countless hours of training, sacrifice, and perseverance have paid off and this victory is a testament to their unyielding passion for tennis.
“Great effort to Sugar-Ray for his remarkable achievement in the U16 boy’s singles event.
“Earning the fifth spot in such a competitive field is a remarkable accomplishment that showcases his immense skill, determination and sportsmanship.”