The recent matches between the Fiji under-15 junior hockey teams and the Australian Wanderers have created a vision for the future of hockey in Fiji. Coach Marcus Hicks emphasized the importance of these encounters as a vital platform for long-term development in the sport. He is focused on cultivating a core group of players who can progress through the under-19 and under-21 levels, with the ultimate goal of contributing to national representation.
“This is a good testing ground for our players,” Hicks stated, highlighting the need for young athletes to prepare for higher levels of competition. His efforts have already borne fruit, as two players have secured scholarships abroad—an achievement Hicks hopes will motivate others to strive for similar success.
Beyond just sports, Hicks sees the potential for education and career development through hockey, aiming to create better futures for these young athletes. He urges young Fijians to engage with the sport, describing hockey as an exciting and strategic game that can lead to a lifelong passion. “The field is always open,” he encouraged, inviting aspiring players to join and possibly discover their love for the game and a path to success.
Hicks, a proud native of Ba, stresses his commitment to nurturing local talent, noting, “Hockey runs in my blood.” His pride in seeing players from his hometown achieve excellence in the sport is evident. With international exposure and a robust development plan in place, he believes that young hockey players in Fiji are setting the stage for a promising future.
In the matches’ results, the boys’ teams had a close encounter, with the Wanderers Goannas drawing 1-1 against Fiji and the Emus defeating Fiji 3-0. However, the girls’ teams showcased more success, with Fiji winning against both the Wanderers (2-1) and Emus (1-0).
This initiative not only reflects a strong commitment to grassroots sports but also inspires hope for the development of hockey in Fiji, offering youth a chance to excel both in athletics and in life.
The future of Fijian hockey looks bright, and as more young athletes get involved, it promises to create even greater opportunities for success on and off the field.
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