Anticipation is building among the Fiji AFL men’s team as they gear up for the 2024 Pacific Cup, taking place in Brisbane, Australia, from November 14. The excitement was palpable during a recent ceremony at Albert Park in Suva where the players received their official jerseys and training gear. This moment was highlighted by Saula Tuilevuka, vice-chair of AFL Fiji, who emphasized the significance of the jerseys for the players, many of whom hail from diverse backgrounds, including villages and settlements.
Tuilevuka believes that this experience not only represents a competitive opportunity for the players but also a chance for AFL Fiji to mold their development. The team has been training rigorously for the past seven weeks, blending seasoned athletes with newcomers from the AFL development pathways. Head coach Alipate Navuso noted the team’s strength, featuring eight players with previous international experience, alongside nine players transitioning from U14 to U17 paths, and eleven eager novices.
Despite AFL being relatively minor in Fiji, the players have exhibited remarkable resilience and commitment, often financing their own travel and meals during training sessions. The support from their families has been invaluable, allowing these athletes to focus on their preparation. “We are incredibly thankful for the sacrifices made by the players’ families to ensure they can prioritize their training,” Tuilevuka remarked.
Determined to leave their mark, the Fiji AFL men’s team is pursuing the ambitious goal of clinching the Pacific Cup. “We’ve worked hard, and the commitment we’ve demonstrated over the last seven weeks assures us that we are ready for this challenge,” Navuso stated confidently.
As the tournament approaches, the team is not only preparing to compete but also aiming to inspire their communities back home. Their journey is a testament to the power of dedication, family support, and the pursuit of dreams, which serves as a hopeful narrative for aspiring athletes in Fiji and beyond.
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