Banuve Tabakaucoro, a celebrated former Olympian and the Pacific 100m sprint record holder, has embarked on an inspiring mission to uplift the next generation of athletes in Fiji. Recently retired from professional athletics, Tabakaucoro has established the Bullet Academy Athletics Club in Suva, aiming to share his extensive knowledge and experiences with young competitors.
With a career spanning 18 years representing Fiji, Tabakaucoro expressed his desire to give back to the sport that has shaped his life. “I just wanted to share my knowledge and guide the young and upcoming athletes,” he stated, emphasizing his commitment to developing talent from the grassroots level. The club is already nurturing approximately 20 aspiring athletes, including primary school students gearing up for the Suva Zone meets.
Tabakaucoro believes that success in athletics goes beyond mere competition. His vision for the academy not only involves developing elite sports skills but also instilling values and aspirations in his young athletes. “I want my athletes to represent Fiji one day in any sport they choose—whether it’s athletics, rugby, netball, or swimming. They must look beyond and shoot for the stars,” he explained.
The former sprint champion leads training sessions, often including hands-on experiences such as beach workouts. He encourages any child willing to commit to training to join the club, stating, “The child must want it themselves first.” His coaching philosophy centers on enjoyment and understanding, with success defined by the learning and self-improvement seen in the athletes.
This new initiative resonates with Tabakaucoro’s previous endeavors, including his involvement in Fiji Sports Council athletics camps, which aim to identify and nurture underrepresented talent across the region. These efforts highlight the importance of mentorship and structured training in fostering a supportive sports community.
Overall, the establishment of the Bullet Academy Athletics Club marks a hopeful chapter for both aspiring athletes and the broader athletics landscape in Fiji. With committed figures like Tabakaucoro at the helm, there is potential for a new generation of champions to emerge, equipped with skills, resilience, and dreams of representing their nation on the world stage.
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