The Fiji Sports Council (FSC) has initiated an off-season athletics training camp, providing a crucial opportunity for young athletes, particularly from smaller schools, to enhance their skills during the holiday season. National athletics coach Ben Tafao’ou noted the importance of structured training to prevent injuries and boost performance, as many talented students often lack proper off-season preparation.
Tafao’ou, who witnessed distressing moments during past competitions—where some students fainted or suffered injuries due to inadequate fitness—proposed this training camp that received approval from FSC management. Currently, the camp is running for six weeks, concluding on January 24, and charges a minimal fee of $20 per week. Encouragingly, approximately 35 participants have already signed up ahead of Christmas, indicating a positive response from the community.
The program focuses on teaching fundamental skills such as block starts, endurance running, and overall discipline. Experienced former athletes, including Albert Miler and Banuve Tabakaucoro, are mentoring participants in specialized events. Tafao’ou expressed satisfaction with the visible improvements in not only physical fitness but also life skills like time management, as parents noted their children became more structured in their routines due to the training.
With inter-house competitions set to begin in February, Tafao’ou encourages more young athletes to join before the camp concludes. He emphasized the camp’s goal of fostering a supportive environment where all young athletes, regardless of their previous experience or school resources, can find opportunities to grow and thrive.
In summary, the FSC off-season training camp stands as a hopeful initiative for young athletes in Fiji, emphasizing skill development, discipline, and inclusivity. This program not only prepares participants for upcoming competitions but also inspires confidence and passion for sports, paving the way for a promising future in athletics on both national and international stages. As more students engage in this enriching environment, the potential for future success in Fiji’s athletics landscape becomes increasingly bright.
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