Fuzhou, China, April 24, 2015 – When Cyclone Pam struck the island nation of Vanuatu in early March, the devastation it left in its wake put Miller Pata and Linline Matauatu’s hopes of starting their FIVB Beach Volleyball World Tour 2015 season at the FIVB Beach Volleyball World Tour Fuzhou Open 2015 in doubt. However, a month later and they are in China where they will finish at least ninth after reaching the second round.
The duo have partnered up for the first time on the circuit since The Hague Open in 2011. They began the year well, taking gold and silver in two AVC events and are hoping to replicate that success.
“When the big cyclone hit Vanuatu it was scary because it was the first time we saw such a big cyclone,” admits Pata. “But we are really glad to take part on the World Tour for Vanuatu. Vanuatu is recovering so we’re really happy. Vanuatu is still smiling.”
“When you play beach volleyball, you forget everything in Vanuatu,” Miller adds. “It’s good to play beach volleyball and forget everything.”