Noco Secondary School Shines at Inter-School Athletics Competition

Noco Secondary School recently demonstrated its athletic prowess by sending 60 athletes to an inter-school athletics competition at the HFC Bank Stadium in Suva. The event included participants from five schools: Nakasi High, Nabua Secondary, Davuilevu Methodist, and Rewa Secondary.

Principal Jone Tuitavua emphasized the importance of providing students with competitive experiences ahead of the upcoming zone meet and the Fiji Finals. He pointed out that many competitors come from village backgrounds, highlighting a need for guidance and support in navigating competitive athletics.

This year, Noco aims to build on last year’s experience, where the school had eight participants but did not secure any medals. The goal is to send approximately 20 to 30 students to regional competitions, with hopes of qualifying around 10 for the Fiji Finals.

However, obstacles such as inadequate training facilities pose challenges for smaller schools like Noco. Tuitavua noted that many institutions struggle with proper grounds for both training and meets, underscoring the importance of participation in events to foster a competitive mindset among athletes.

In this competition, Noco Secondary School finished fourth overall, achieving a commendable tally of two gold, six silver, and two bronze medals. This success showcases the growth and enthusiasm of their student-athletes.

Additionally, the event reflected a spirit of cooperation among the participating schools, aligning with broader efforts within Fiji’s educational sports framework. Previous calls from Nakasi High’s principal for joint inter-house competitions have highlighted a desire to amplify competitiveness and resource sharing, enriching the school sports environment and fostering stronger relationships among institutions.

As schools continue to organize such events, they nurture the talents of young athletes, potentially leading to future national successes. The increasing interest and support for school sports could signal a revitalizing of athletic culture within educational settings, promoting skill development and community engagement among students.