The Fiji men’s hockey team is preparing for a significant challenge as they approach the Oceania Pacific Cup next month. Scheduled from December 9 to 12 at the National Hockey turf in Laucala Bay, the competition promises to be fierce, with eight teams in the men’s category participating.
Teams such as the Fiji national team, Fiji Warriors, New Zealand Fiji, Papua New Guinea, Tonga, Samoa, Solomon Islands, and Vanuatu are all set to compete. Coach Shaun Corrie expresses enthusiasm for fielding two men’s teams, aiming to enhance player experience in a competitive environment.
Corrie anticipates tough matches, particularly against the New Zealand Fiji team, which features players from the New Zealand National Selection Squads, including skilled athletes like Zander Fraser, Aidan Fraser, Rocco, and Khelvin Ratubuli. The Solomon Islands, boosted by the establishment of a High-Performance Unit Institute, are also expected to pose a significant challenge. Similarly, Tonga and Samoa’s access to players based in Australia and New Zealand adds an element of unpredictability. Vanuatu and Papua New Guinea, equipped with advanced facilities, are also regarded as strong contenders.
Currently, the full squad is still being formed, with several players from the West awaiting work leave to join the team in Suva. Nevertheless, training sessions are actively underway in both Suva and the West, facilitated by High-Performance Unit coaches. The team is hopeful that the complete squad will be ready by the weekend, just in time to prepare together for the upcoming competition.
Despite the tight preparation timeline, the team’s focus remains on refining fitness, team dynamics, and both defensive and offensive strategies. Coach Corrie expressed gratitude toward the Fiji Hockey Federation’s sponsors, including the Fiji Sports Commission and others, for their support in preparing for this event.
This spirited preparation reflects the team’s determination and highlights a shared commitment to excellence, fostering hope for a strong performance at the tournament. The upcoming Pacific Cup not only showcases regional talent but also builds community spirit and teamwork among participating nations.
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