Netball Fiji has made significant strides in grassroots development by conducting a capacity-building clinic in Naitasiri, aimed at enhancing the skills of local umpires and officials. Led by National Umpires Coordinator Losalini Bainivalu and Fiji’s top umpire Yvonne Vaka, the program took place at Nabukaluka Primary School and focused on providing an umpires refresher course alongside a technical officials’ workshop.
The initiative was designed for 16 schoolteachers from the Waidina cluster, equipping them with knowledge on netball rules and scoring methods. Bainivalu emphasized that enhancing the capabilities of teachers is vital for the sustainable development of netball in Fiji.
“This is part of Netball Fiji’s ongoing mission to build capacity in every corner of the country. The more knowledgeable our officials and umpires are, the better the playing environment becomes for our players,” said Bainivalu.
Netball Fiji’s commitment to working collaboratively with stakeholders, including the Fiji National Sports Commission, further underscores their dedication to empowering communities and laying a strong foundation for the sport across all levels. This focus on grassroots engagement not only nurtures young talent but also promotes a vibrant culture of netball throughout Fiji.
In light of the continuing emphasis on local competitions, which was discussed by Netball Fiji President RubyAnn Sorovaki in a recent statement, it is clear that the organization is on the path to fostering a stronger foundation for netball. Sorovaki noted that enhancing local tournaments is essential for identifying players for national teams, ensuring competitive play, and creating clear pathways from regional competitions to national representation.
As these grassroots initiatives unfold, there is a growing sense of optimism for the future of netball in Fiji. This commitment to training and skill development paves the way for potential talents to emerge, ultimately aiming for success on both national and international stages. By fortifying the grassroots structure of the sport, Netball Fiji is not only aspiring to uplift the sport but also to inspire the next generation of athletes across the nation.
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