The Marist Brothers Primary School swimming team is preparing to compete at this year’s Fiji Primary and Secondary Schools Nationals Swimming Championships with a small but determined group of five swimmers. Team manager Ilisapeta Irava Ragogo highlighted that this year’s squad, the smallest in their history, was chosen for their high level of commitment both in swimming and academics.
“Out of the 900 boys in the school, we selected the five who have shown exceptional talent and dedication,” Ragogo stated. Four members of this year’s team are returning medalists from previous competitions, joined by a newcomer eager to make an impact in his first swim meet.
Training has been rigorous despite the team’s limited number and resources, with practices held three to four times a week at the Damodar City Aquatic Centre over a month-long preparation period. This contrasts with other schools that started their training much earlier, yet the Marist team has shown remarkable improvement and dedication.
Ragogo emphasized the team’s focus this year is less on winning medals and more on demonstrating heart, discipline, and school pride. “We aim to show other schools our spirit, both in the pool and outside of it,” she added, highlighting the importance of balancing rigorous academic commitments, especially since four swimmers are preparing for Year 8 external exams.
Support from parents and community, particularly from Scholars United—an organization of Marist Brothers alumni that sponsored the team’s swimming kits—has been crucial. The prevailing sentiment is one of passion, with Ragogo inspiring the boys to follow their hearts in both sport and studies, emphasizing that a love for swimming can also fuel academic success.
In line with similar stories from other schools, such as Saint Thomas Primary School, who are also preparing for the same championships, the emphasis remains on growth, discipline, and community engagement in sports.
As Marist Brothers looks to make a significant splash at the championships with their small but talented team, the hope and enthusiasm radiating from the swimmers underscore the power of sports in personal development and teamwork. The competition is set to be more than just about medals; it’s a celebration of youth, resilience, and community spirit through swimming.
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