It’s a chance to represent the U.S., an opportunity that doesn’t come along for many. But the Rainbow Wahine will have three players at the U.S. Women’s National Team open tryout that begins today in Colorado Springs, Colo.

It is the second consecutive year that outside hitter McKenna Granato, setter Norene Iosia and defensive specialist Reyn “Tita” Akiu have been invited to the U.S. Olympic Training Center. All made teams that competed last summer. Iosia is one of two setters on the U.S. Women’s Junior National Team that played at the FIVB U20 World Championships in Mexico. Granato and Akiu competed on the U.S. Women’s Collegiate National Team.

“Anything to do with USA Volleyball is a good thing,” said Hawaii volleyball coach Robyn Ah Mow-Santos, who played for the U.S. for 10 years, including three Olympics. “It’s always a good opportunity.”

Some 229 players will be evaluated through Sunday, with chances to be selected to the national team as well as three different collegiate summer teams. One 12-member team will compete in Asia on May 20-31, another in Europe on July 4-15. A 24-member team will train and compete June 22 to July 1 in Detroit.

There are 59 outside hitters, 48 liberos/defensive specialists and 43 setters trying out.

Last year, Granato and Akiu were representing different colleges — Hawaii and Texas Tech. This time, the former Team Piko clubmates are wearing Wahine jerseys.

“Getting a chance to go with two other Wahine is awesome,” said Akiu, who has one year of eligibility remaining. “Representing the U.S. is something I’ve dreamt of since I was a little girl.

“It was great to see McKenna at the tryouts last year, and now we get to play together again. It was time to come home and be with family.”

“I’m really excited about going,” said Granato, also an incoming senior for the Wahine. “It’s a fun program and I’d like to make a team again. I’m looking to get better.”

Iosia, an incoming junior, agreed.

“The goal is to make a team, get the experience,” she said. “Hopefully, I make it.”

There is one session today, two on Saturday and one on Sunday. The tryouts will be streamed online at 808ne.ws/usavbtryouts.