Sporting federations throughout Fiji are engaging in extensive fundraising efforts to ensure their athletes can afford to participate in the upcoming Pacific Mini Games in Palau, scheduled for June 29 to July 9. Each athlete is required to meet a levy of $3,000, a challenge that has prompted federations like Fiji Athletics to organize various fundraising initiatives, from ticket sales to community events.
Team manager Iva Volavola highlighted the pivotal role played by athletes’ parents, who have actively participated by taking tickets for sales to assist their children in meeting the financial requirements. “We had to sit down and think about fundraisers to help these athletes, many of the parents stepped forward,” Volavola noted, demonstrating the collaborative spirit within the community.
Despite the commendable efforts, some athletes lack adequate support systems at home, making fundraising increasingly challenging. Similar sentiments were echoed in other federations across Fiji, which are also grappling with the financial implications of sending their athletes to the Mini Games. For instance, Athletics Fiji has launched a lottery campaign to boost funding, emphasizing the importance of community support in alleviating financial pressures on athletes.
The fundraising landscape reflects a broader trend within Fiji’s sports community, where federations aim not only to fund levies but also to foster a sense of unity and pride as athletes prepare to showcase their talents on an international stage. Each successful effort serves as a testament to the resilience and determination of the athletes and their supporters.
As the deadline approaches, the proactive measures taken by the federations and the encouraging response from the community provide a hopeful outlook for Team Fiji. Their collective endeavors may enhance Fiji’s representation at the Pacific Mini Games and contribute positively to the athletes’ future in sports.
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