The Fiji men’s hockey team is gearing up for a formidable challenge as they prepare for the upcoming Oceania Pacific Cup next month. The competition, which starts on December 9 and runs until December 12 at the National Hockey turf in Laucala Bay, will see eight teams competing in the men’s category, including the Fiji national team, Fiji Warriors, New Zealand Fiji, Papua New Guinea, Tonga, Samoa, the Solomon Islands, and Vanuatu.
Coach Shaun Corrie expressed his enthusiasm in fielding two men’s teams, which will allow more players the chance to gain valuable experience in a competitive setting. He noted that competition will be fierce, particularly from the New Zealand Fiji team, which features players who have been part of the New Zealand National Selection Squads. Notable players include Zander and Aidan Fraser, Rocco, and Khelvin Ratubuli, who is Fiji-represented and based in New Zealand.
The Solomon Islands also pose a significant threat with the establishment of their High-Performance Unit Institute, making them a team to watch. Additionally, teams from Tonga and Samoa can draw on talent from players based in Australia and New Zealand, adding to their unpredictability. Vanuatu and Papua New Guinea are expected to showcase their creativity, with Vanuatu boasting a dedicated hockey5s facility while PNG trains on an artificial turf.
As the team finalizes its squad selection, players from the western region are currently awaiting leave from work to join their teammates in Suva, where ongoing training is taking place with High-Performance Unit coaches. The team remains optimistic about bringing the entire squad together by this weekend, allowing for two weeks of focused preparation.
Despite the challenges of time constraints, the coaching staff is concentrating on daily training tasks—enhancing player fitness, refining team dynamics, and developing both offensive and defensive strategies. Coach Corrie expressed gratitude toward the Fiji Hockey Federation’s sponsors for their support, highlighting organizations such as the Fiji Sports Commission, Fiji Sports Council, and Vodafone, among others.
With the competition looming, the Fiji team is not only preparing to face strong opponents but also looking forward to the opportunity to showcase their skills on a significant stage, reminding us of the dedication and resilience of athletes in pursuit of excellence.
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