A Favorite Hobby Turned Community Fundraiser

Interview with Oana Duma: 3P Community Coordinator

Oana Duma has been working in outdoor education for nearly a decade, facilitating groups from toddlers to teens. In 2024, she stepped into the role of Community Coordinator with Three Pines Project, where she has focused on building partnerships with outdoor education and environmental stewardship organizations while helping expand free community meetups across the tri-county area.

When she’s not in the woods, she’s usually in the sand playing volleyball at Capt’n Bill’s. Combining her love for community, connection, and accessibility, Oana helped bring the Pine Time Classic to life. This tournament will be 3P’s very first volleyball fundraiser tournament supporting scholarships and accessible outdoor programming.

Q: What is your favorite thing about playing at Capt'n Bills (what keeps you coming back season after season)?

A: Long story short, it is my happy place. I started playing about four years ago, and it’s one of those places that keeps pulling you back season after season. No matter how hard the day has been or what life throws at you, that place is like a reset button. 

Q: What makes Capt’n Bill’s such a special place for people to gather, play, and build connections and friendships?

A: What makes Capt’n Bill’s so special is the atmosphere they’ve created. The staff is genuinely kind and welcoming, and the volleyball leagues are not only fun but also bring together such a diverse group of people of all ages and skill levels. There’s a real sense of community there, and people are respectful, encouraging and open, which makes it easy to build friendships and feel connected. Add in the great food, drinks, music and some truly beautiful sunsets and moonrises and it becomes much more than just a place to play volleyball. 

Q: How did the Pine Time Classic tournament idea start?

A: I played in quite a few tournaments to support different organizations. I admired Capt’n Bills for giving that opportunity in the community. I always dreamed of organizing one to support local outdoor education, my biggest passion. So when I started working with Three Pines, it just felt like the perfect timing to suggest this idea and to work to make it happen! 

Q: What advice would you give someone who feels nervous about signing up for a community volleyball tournament for the first time?

A: Just get on the court and play, don’t overthink it! Bump, set, spike or just hit it over the net, it doesn’t matter as long as you are having fun. 

Q: What’s one of your favorite memories or moments you’ve experienced through beach volleyball?

A: There are so many that come into my mind, but one of my favorite ones is a Friday final for Summer II league in 2024. It was a tough loss but we played hard and it was a lot of fun. There are many pieces that made that night special, but I guess the people I shared that evening with are the biggest one.

Q: You played a huge role in making this event possible. What has the experience of organizing and building it alongside the community been like?

A: It’s been a mix of excitement and nerves, honestly. I was nervous that the idea wouldn’t even be approved, so seeing it grow from a simple thought into a real community event has been amazing. Organizing something like this alongside the community has reminded me how many people are willing to show up, support a good cause, and help bring an idea to life. There’s a lot happening behind the scenes, but seeing people come together, offer encouragement, and get excited about the event has made the whole experience wonderful. I’m incredibly grateful for every person who said “yes” and helped support this journey along the way. 

Q: What do you hope participants walk away feeling after the tournament (both in terms of community connection and supporting Three Pines Project)?

A: I want this tournament to feel fun and welcoming while also helping people see the impact that outdoor education and accessible community programs can have on children and families. For those who have never been to Capt’n Bill’s before, I hope they discover how wonderful this place is and want to come back. 

I hope people leave with great memories, new connections and the feeling that they were part of something positive and supportive. 

Want to be part of the Pine Time Classic? Gather a team and register here. Volleyball not your thing? Come check out the raffle baskets, swag, and grab lunch from the grill. Participation in the tournament or raffle helps Three Pines Project expand access to families with financial barriers and continue free monthly community events for all.

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