Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka highlighted the significance of sports as a means of unity and a motivator that challenges athletes to exceed their capabilities. While honoring the accomplishments of athletes, coaches, administrators, and management in 2023, he referenced the renowned words of the late Nelson Mandela, reminding the people of Fiji of the transformative power of sports in nation-building.
“The late Nelson Mandela once stated that ‘sport has the power to change the world.’ Here in Fiji, we truly recognize this,” Rabuka said. He emphasized that sports have the potential to unite, inspire, and push individuals beyond their limits.
He noted that 2023 was a particularly eventful year for sports, with athletes participating in various tournaments, including the Pacific Games in the Solomon Islands, the Rugby World Cup in France, and the Netball World Cup in South Africa. “Our athletes are not just competitors; they serve as ambassadors for our nation, embodying the hopes and aspirations of all Fijians. Whenever you wear the national uniform or jersey, you represent Fiji and carry our flag with pride,” he stated.
During the awards ceremony on Saturday, Fiji Swimming received two accolades, with Anahira McCutcheon recognized as the Unit Trust of Fiji Young Female Athlete of the Year and Trisa Cheer named the Sports World Technical Official of the Year. Fiji Rugby also claimed two honors, with Simon Raiwalui receiving the FIJI Water Coach of the Year award and the Flying Fijians designated as the Asco Motors Team of the Year.
In the Vodafone Youth Male Athlete of the Year category, Nehemiah Elder received an award, while the Fiji Sports Council awarded Taniela Rainibogi and Miriama Taletawa from Weightlifting Fiji as Sportsman and Sportswoman of the Year, respectively. Netball Fiji was named Sports Organization of the Year, while Anushil Kumar of Fiji Football was awarded the ONOC Hanisi Erasito Administrator of the Year. Other honors included Astral Smith, who was recognized as the Lawhill Wines Volunteer of the Year, and Jonacani Lalakobau of The Fiji Times, who won the 2023 Photograph of the Year award.