There has been no official discussion regarding rewards for the Fiji men’s netball team following their remarkable victory at the Men’s Nations Cup in Singapore earlier this month. Minister of Youth and Sports, Jese Saukuru, confirmed this information yesterday.
The men’s team triumphed over Australia Under-20 in a thrilling final, winning 55-54, and securing the prestigious Merlion Cup at the Jurong East Sports Complex. Minister Saukuru expressed gratitude towards the team for their historic achievement, emphasizing the significance of their first international tournament win. “We wish to thank them for winning their first international tournament. I think we should thank them as a nation – our sports people have really shown the world that we are the best,” he stated.
While the potential for cash incentives and rewards was mentioned, Saukuru clarified that such awards have traditionally been reserved for teams competing at the World Cup and Olympic levels. He noted, “We’ll have to meet internally and we’ll see how it goes. So far we have only been giving it to those at the world level, World Cup and Olympics.”
The Fiji men’s netball team demonstrated their prowess throughout the tournament, having previously defeated strong teams, including England, New Zealand, Singapore, and Hong Kong, with only a single loss to Australia Under-20 during the round-robin phase.
This momentous victory not only highlights the team’s dedication and talent but also represents a significant milestone for men’s netball in Fiji. It opens the door for future conversations about support and recognition for athletes competing in international events, potentially paving the way for increased investment in grassroots sports and a broader acknowledgment of their hard work and achievements.
In the spirit of celebration, it is hoped that there will be discussions soon about recognizing the team’s efforts in a manner that aligns with their accomplishments. Such recognition could motivate other athletes and inspire a new generation of sports enthusiasts in Fiji.
Leave a comment