Former national boxer and board member of the Boxing Commission of Fiji (BCF), Visila Kolitapa, has raised concerns regarding the selection process for local boxers heading on international tours. Visila, alongside her husband Temo Kolitapa, has decided to withdraw their daughter, Merewalesi Vulavou Saumaiwai Kolitapa, from the national squad slated for a mid-year tour to Australia, citing perceived bias in the selection for international competitions in the United States and Australia.
The decision comes after an earlier verbal confirmation indicated that Merewalesi would be included in the U.S. trip, only for her name to be left off the final list revealed last Saturday. Merewalesi, a talented 16-year-old boxer with a record of 24 fights and only one loss, reportedly dedicated her Christmas and New Year’s holidays to rigorous training and diet to prepare for these opportunities.
Visila expressed her frustrations, claiming that despite tirelessly preparing and proving her capability, the selection criteria lacked fairness, particularly pointing out that another female boxer selected for the U.S. tour had only fought once in the previous year. She emphasized the importance of trials for selection, particularly when government funding is involved.
In response, national boxing head coach Cameron Todd explained that due to budgetary constraints, only five elite boxers were selected to compete in the U.S., with additional opportunities for juniors and youths at the Australian event. He acknowledged the disappointment regarding Mere’s withdrawal and clarified that the selection was based on last year’s performances to maximize exposure for aspiring boxers.
The boxing association is actively working to provide various competition opportunities throughout the year, including upcoming events from international teams, with plans for development training in New Zealand.
Additionally, to support funding for local boxers participating in upcoming international tournaments, the Fiji Amateur Boxing Association (FABA) is organizing a car wash fundraiser at Kundan Singh Supermarket from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Overall, this situation highlights the ongoing challenges within sports selection processes while underlining the dedication required from young athletes. With increasing competition and a busy year ahead, there remains hope for local boxers to showcase their talents on international stages despite the hurdles faced.
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