Former national basketball representative Dale Wise Sauqaqa is spearheading an initiative aimed at increasing female participation in basketball in Fiji. Collaborating with other former players, Sauqaqa, who serves as the lead coordinator for Go Connections Fiji, recently conducted a successful basketball program at the FMF Gymnasium in Suva, attracting a significant turnout of young girls eager to engage in the sport.
Sauqaqa’s commitment is not limited to basketball alone; he emphasizes the broader goal of promoting sports among females. “We’re trying to get as many girls interested not only in basketball but to take up sports in general,” he stated, highlighting the importance of physical activity as a healthy diversion from screen time. This initiative offers a constructive opportunity for parents to encourage their children to explore sports, laying the groundwork for a lifelong love of physical activity.
The program catered to girls aged 6 to 10 and included essential skills drills covering dribbling, shooting, and passing. The turnout reflects a positive trend, as Sauqaqa observes an upward trajectory in female participation in their programs, which is crucial for fostering future talent in sports.
Notably accompanying Sauqaqa was fellow former national representative Estelle Kainamoli and Sera Vugakoto, Basketball Fiji’s Women Engagement Officer. Their joint efforts underscore a collective commitment to nurturing young female athletes and promoting inclusivity in sports.
This initiative parallels other efforts in Fiji, such as the introduction of girls’ rugby at the national Kaji competition, which highlights a growing movement towards enhancing opportunities for female athletes across various sports. With continued support and engagement, the future looks promising for women’s sports in Fiji, fostering a culture of inclusivity and empowerment among young athletes.
Overall, these developments demonstrate a hopeful shift in the sports landscape, as programs like Sauqaqa’s work to inspire and uplift the next generation of female athletes, encouraging them to actively participate and thrive in sports.
Leave a comment