The Fiji men’s hockey team is preparing for a significant challenge as they get ready for the Oceania Pacific Cup next month. The tournament, featuring eight competing teams, promises to deliver stiff competition.
Among the teams participating are the Fiji national team, Fiji Warriors, New Zealand Fiji, Papua New Guinea, Tonga, Samoa, Solomons, and Vanuatu. Coach Shaun Corrie is excited to field two men’s teams, allowing more players the chance to showcase their skills in a competitive setting.
Corrie emphasized the competitiveness of the event, noting that the NZ Fiji team includes several players from New Zealand’s National Selection Squads, such as Zander Fraser, Aidan Fraser, Rocco, and Khelvin Ratubuli. He also highlighted the skills of the fast-paced Solomon Islands team, thanks to their recently established High-Performance Unit Institute, and mentioned the unpredictability of Tonga and Samoa due to their access to players in Australia and New Zealand. Additionally, Vanuatu and PNG are seen as formidable opponents with their specialized training facilities.
As the squad continues to form, players from the West are still securing leave from work to join their teammates in Suva, where training is underway. The team is optimistic about having everyone ready by the weekend, allowing them two weeks of preparation together.
Despite the tight timeline, the coaching staff is focused on daily tasks aimed at improving fitness, team dynamics, and both offensive and defensive strategies. Coach Corrie expressed gratitude towards the Fiji Hockey Federation’s sponsors, acknowledging the support from various entities that have helped the team reach this point.
The Pacific Cup will take place at the National Hockey turf in Laucala Bay from December 9-12.
This preparation period could be a turning point for the Fiji men’s hockey team, as they navigate challenges and embrace the opportunities to develop their talents collectively. Their dedication and the support from sponsors could lead to memorable performances during the upcoming tournament, showcasing the potential of Fijian hockey on an international stage.
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