Badminton Fiji is gearing up for the VICTOR Oceania Individual Championships, scheduled to take place from February 8-12, 2026, at the North Harbour Badminton Centre in Auckland, New Zealand. This event will feature a team of 12 athletes, comprising eight men and four women, many of whom will be making their international debut.
Abel Caine, the newly appointed president of Badminton Fiji and the team manager for this championship, expressed the significance of the tournament for the players. “This tournament will be a great exposure for our players, many of whom have not yet participated in international competition,” he stated. The primary goal is to acclimatize the athletes to the international stage and allow them to measure their skills against formidable competitors. This experience is crucial as they prepare for the upcoming Pacific Games and the Olympic Games.
In the lead-up to the tournament, Caine has received essential support from Fiji badminton legends Bertie Moliere and Liam Fong, both gold medallists, who have volunteered their time to provide pre-tournament coaching and mentorship. Their guidance is particularly beneficial for young athlete Aidan Kane, as the team works diligently under the expert coaching of Steven Low, who is recognized as a Badminton World Federation Level 1 educator and an Oceania Sports Education Program specialist.
The competition promises to showcase Fiji’s rich history and prowess in badminton within the Pacific region. With free admission to the event, Fijians in Auckland, especially those in North Harbour, are encouraged to attend and show their support, which will undoubtedly uplift the athletes’ spirits.
Caine emphasized the importance of this competition as a pivotal step towards restoring Fiji’s reputation as a dominant force in badminton. With strong preparation and robust community backing, the team is optimistic about making a significant impact on the international badminton scene.
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