The ITTF-Oceania Para Table Tennis Championships was not only about competition and medals. It was also about the people in the stands. Families and friends travelled near and far to be there, turning the event into a true celebration of connection and support.

For Tonga’s Loamanu Iotili, family came in numbers. His cousin Kailomani, uncle Isileli and nephew Talanoa were all there, with three generations sitting side by side to cheer him on. Their voices carried through the venue, making sure he knew he was never alone on court.

Team Tuvalu also felt that same warmth. The Resture family arrived with pride and joy, even bringing along their little ones to wave and shout for their uncle Alan, who coaches the Tuvalu team. It was a reminder of how sport can bring families together and make memories that last a lifetime.

For NZ Paralympian #230 Matthew Britz, the moment was even more special. His father, Anthony, travelled all the way from the United States to be at his side. Anthony said, “To be here in New Zealand and watch Matthew compete on home soil is something I’ll never forget. We’ve shared so much of his journey from afar, but to witness his determination in person and see the community here rally around him, it is truly special.”

There was a proud moment for the Rae family as Joshua Rae played with the support of his mum and grandparents watching closely. His grandmother’s eyes shone as she shared her joy: "My mother, Iris Dove, Joshua’s great-grandmother, was the New Zealand national singles champion in 1926 and 1935. To see Joshua following in her footsteps is incredible. I played table tennis myself, but I never represented New Zealand. To watch him compete today and see the quality of his rallies, I feel so proud of what he has achieved.”

Moments like these show that family and friends are at the heart of sport. Their encouragement gives strength. Their pride gives confidence. Their presence makes every victory even sweeter. At the ITTF-Oceania Para Table Tennis Championships, it was clear that the story went far beyond the tables. It was about families who travelled together, cheered together and celebrated together.