The Fiji Sports Council (FSC) has successfully established an off-season athletics training camp designed to provide young athletes, especially from smaller schools, with valuable training opportunities during the holiday season. This initiative, spearheaded by National athletics coach Ben Tafao’ou, arose from the pressing need for structured training, as many talented athletes lack access to proper preparation, leading to injuries and poor performances during competitions.

Tafao’ou expressed concern over the struggles many young athletes face, citing distressing instances during prior events where some even fainted due to inadequate conditioning. In response to this alarming trend, he proposed the off-season camp, which was quickly approved by FSC management. Open to any interested athletes, the camp has set a minimal fee of $20 per week and has registered around 35 participants since launching three weeks ahead of Christmas. It will run for six weeks, concluding on January 24, just before the inter-house competitions scheduled for February.

Participants at the camp benefit from the expertise of notable former athletes, such as Olympic champion Albert Miler and sprinting star Banuve Tabakaucoro, who provide specialized coaching in events like high jumps and sprints. The training program emphasizes essential skills, such as block starts and endurance running, while also focusing on instilling discipline and life skills, which parents have noted as positive changes in their children’s routines.

The camp’s inclusive environment encourages young athletes, many of whom previously felt intimidated by more experienced competitors, to embrace the opportunity to compete. Tafao’ou warmly invites more students to join the training camp as there is still time available to prepare before inter-house events commence.

Overall, the FSC off-season athletics training camp represents a significant step toward nurturing young talent in Fiji. By prioritizing skill development, fostering discipline, and creating a supportive community, this initiative not only aims to enhance the athletic capabilities of participants but also cultivates a passion for sports that could lead to lasting success in the future. The enthusiasm and determination displayed by these young athletes embody a promising outlook for the future of athletics in Fiji, potentially shaping future champions on both local and international platforms.