Deanna Sanitoa awarded World Athletics Veteran Pin 



At the 2025 World Athletics Congress Deanna Sanitoa (American Samoa) was awarded the World Athletics Veteran Pin

The World Athletics Veteran pin is an honour bestowed on individual whose exceptional, loyal and outstanding service and contribution has provided a measurable benefit to the sport of athletics over an extended period of time.

Deanna Sanitoa has been a cornerstone of athletics in American Samoa for over 20 years, serving as the General Secretary of Athletics American Samoa with unwavering dedication. Her extensive work has focused on promoting athletics across diverse communities, particularly in schools and churches, ensuring the sport remains deeply rooted in the culture of American Samoa. Through her collaboration with the American Samoa Track & Field Association (ASTFA) and other organisations, she has played an integral role in fostering the growth and sustainability of athletics in the region.

As an active and accomplished coach within ASA, Deanna has earned credentials through the World Athletics CECS coaching and lecturing courses. Her commitment to advancing the sport is evident in her continuous efforts to mentor, train, and inspire athletes, while simultaneously driving innovation within the Federation to ensure its development remains on an upward trajectory.

Deanna has particularly excelled in her commitment to Kids’ Athletics, a program that has seen phenomenal growth under her guidance. Her efforts have not only expanded the reach of Kids’ Athletics but also ensured its widespread adoption across schools and church communities, leaving a lasting legacy for the youth of American Samoa. Her passion and determination to nurture young athletes have been pivotal to the program’s success.

Since the early 2000s, Deanna has consistently represented American Samoa at OAA and World Athletics Congresses, showcasing her leadership and commitment to the global athletics community. Throughout her tenure, she has seamlessly taken on additional roles, including those of MF Coach and Head Technical Official, while excelling in the complex administrative duties of the General Secretary position.

Deanna’s contributions to athletics in American Samoa extend far beyond her roles and titles. Her impact can be seen in the lives of athletes she has supported, the policies she has helped implement, and the safe, inclusive environment she has fostered for the sport to flourish. Her enduring dedication and remarkable achievements make her an invaluable figure in the world of athletics, both within her region and beyond.

Deanna was awarded the OAA Merit Award in 2022.

We congratulate Deanna Sanitoa on receiving the World Athletics Veteran Pin.