The Fiji Tribe team of the Australia Football League (AFL) is gearing up for a strong performance at the upcoming Pacific Cup in Brisbane, scheduled from November 14 to 24. Head coach Alipate Navuso shared this ambition during the presentation of their training kits, which was sponsored by local business Flame Tree.
Navuso highlighted the team’s rigorous preparation, indicating that they have undergone seven weeks of intensive training, practicing daily except for Sundays. The squad features a dynamic blend of talent, including eight seasoned players who previously represented Fiji in the world cups of 2011, 2014, and 2017. Additionally, there are nine players who have progressed through the AFL Fiji pathway programs, encompassing the Under-14, 15, and 17 levels, making their debut in the senior team.
The team also has 11 newcomers who recently engaged with the sport and are poised to prove themselves on the playing field. Navuso expressed pride in the commitment of all players, noting that there has been complete attendance during training.
Despite the challenges of recruiting sponsors for a sport less recognized in Fiji, the support from sponsors like Flame Tree has been crucial. Navuso recognized both the financial investment the team has made personally and the players who traveled at their own expense for training sessions in Suva.
With a strong mixture of experienced talent and enthusiastic newcomers, the team’s hopes of clinching the Pacific Cup are not only ambitious but also rooted in a firm commitment to teamwork and skill improvement. Their dedication highlights a positive outlook for the tournament, reflecting the spirit of resilience and passion that is characteristic of sports communities.
Overall, this preparation showcases the hard work, unity, and determination of the AFL Fiji Tribe, inspiring hope for their performance in the upcoming cup.
Leave a comment