The Fiji Tribe team of the Australia Football League (AFL) is gearing up to compete in the Pacific Cup, scheduled to take place in Brisbane, Australia, from November 14 to 24. This announcement was made by head coach Alipate Navuso during a recent event where the team received new training kits from their sponsors.
Navuso shared that the team has engaged in seven weeks of rigorous training, with practices occurring daily except Sundays. The squad combines eight seasoned players who have experience from the 2011, 2014, and 2017 World Cups with nine other athletes who have successively progressed through the AFL Fiji development pathways for players aged Under-14, 15, and 17. This event marks the first time these younger players will represent Fiji at the senior level.
The team has also welcomed 11 newcomers who are relatively new to the sport but eager to showcase their talents on the field. However, recruiting sponsors can be challenging, as AFL is often viewed as a minor sport in Fiji. Fortunately, the team has gained support from a sponsor, Flame Tree.
Navuso has emphasized that the team’s solid combination of experienced players and dedicated newcomers is its greatest asset. Alongside technical skills and fitness, the commitment exhibited by the players during the training sessions has been commendable, with no reports of absenteeism.
He acknowledged the financial sacrifices made by the players and their families to prepare for the Pacific Cup, highlighting that some Western players even covered their travel expenses to Suva for training sessions. Their dedication reflects not only a passion for the sport but also a strong sense of teamwork and community support.
This upcoming competition provides an excellent opportunity for the Fiji Tribe team to shine on a larger stage, and with their hard work and commitment, they aim to make a significant impact in the Pacific Cup.
In summary, the Fiji Tribe team is preparing with enthusiasm and dedication for the Pacific Cup, showcasing their blend of experience and new talent. With a commitment to teamwork and strong community support, they strive to bring home victory while also raising the profile of AFL in Fiji.
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