Fiji Hockey is actively addressing challenges within its junior development pathway after experiencing a notable exodus of under-15 athletes, coinciding with the peak athletics season that aligns with international hockey tours. Development officer Fatima Mario highlighted that this timing clash remains one of the sport’s most significant obstacles in assembling competitive age-grade teams.
The schedule discrepancy arises as overseas hockey teams typically visit during Fiji’s busiest athletics period, complicating efforts to keep young hockey players engaged with the sport. “Currently, we’re trying to work around the traveling arrangements with the teams from overseas. Because the time that overseas teams come over, it’s our peak time of sports here in Fiji,” stated Mario.
This year, many promising junior hockey athletes opted to pursue track and field, representing regions such as Suva and Tailevu. While this shift is seen positively, with young athletes finding opportunities in athletics, it has nevertheless posed a challenge for hockey development. “A lot of our athletes, we lost them… not in a bad way, but they joined the athletics teams,” noted Mario.
Looking ahead, Fiji Hockey remains optimistic. The federation plans to adjust its preparation strategy around the athletics calendar by 2026, aiming to attract and retain a broader pool of talented young players. With these proactive measures, there is hope for a more stable and enriched future for hockey development in Fiji.
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