Fiji’s Boxing Future: Building Champions through Technique and Competition

National head coach Cam Todd has emphasized the need for improvement in the performance of amateur boxers following the recent International Tri-Nations amateur boxing competition held at the FMF Gymnasium in Suva. Speaking on the final day of the event, Todd noted that local coaches could benefit from analyzing the techniques of their international counterparts, particularly those from Australia, who demonstrate a solid grasp of fundamental skills.

Highlighting the importance of mastering basic techniques, Todd remarked, “It’s good and very well being strong and powerful, but you need basic technique as a foundation.” He urged local coaches to observe how experienced fighters conduct themselves in the ring, as this could significantly enhance the learning curve for Fiji’s boxers.

During the competition, Fiji’s representatives, who came from various clubs, faced a challenging environment, likened by Todd to “going into unknown waters.” While some athletes rose to the occasion, others still require further development. Todd reflected positively on the competition’s outcomes, indicating that Fiji performed admirably overall, despite being slightly behind Australia at one point.

He shared, “We had some good wins, and we’re doing much better at the moment,” which points to a growing trend of improvement among the athletes. This tournament not only served as a competitive platform but also brought to light the increasing dedication towards refining and building local talent for future international events.

In previous competitions, including a two-day challenge against teams from New Zealand, Fiji’s boxing teams have shown marked progress under Todd’s guidance. He believes that participating in international competitions is vital to developing stronger fighters and fostering grassroots interest in the sport.

The outlook for Fiji’s boxing scene remains optimistic, with continued efforts to engage and develop both junior and amateur boxers. This dedication may pave the way for future champions, strengthening the sport’s roots in the local community. The Tri-Nations event thus symbolizes a commitment to nurturing talent and enhancing the overall standard of boxing in Fiji.