The Fiji Sports Council (FSC) has launched an important off-season athletics training camp aimed at providing aspiring young athletes, particularly from smaller schools, with a chance to enhance their skills during the holiday season. National athletics coach Ben Tafao’ou has emphasized that many of these talented students often lack access to structured training, which can lead to serious issues such as injuries and exhaustion during competitions.
Responding to these concerns, Tafao’ou proposed the establishment of this camp after witnessing numerous incidents where athletes struggled during athletic events last year. The initiative received approval from FSC management, with the camp kicking off three weeks before Christmas. A nominal fee of $20 per week has successfully attracted around 35 participants.
The six-week training program, which concludes on January 24, focuses on teaching fundamental athletic skills including block starts and endurance training. Participants benefit from the expertise of renowned former athletes like Albert Miler and Banuve Tabakaucoro, who provide specialized coaching in high jumps and sprints.
Tafao’ou has noted the positive impact the camp has had on the athletes, particularly in terms of discipline and time management. Parents have reported changes in their children’s routines as they have started to embrace a more structured lifestyle, learning to wake up early for training and adhering to their schedules. Many young athletes who previously felt intimidated by their more accomplished peers are now filled with enthusiasm to participate in inter-house competitions slated for February.
The camp’s mission is to create an inclusive environment where students from all backgrounds can train and develop their skills alongside experienced coaches. Tafao’ou has expressed hope that the initiative will encourage more young athletes to participate, fostering a new generation of talent ready to compete and excel.
In summary, the FSC off-season athletics training camp serves as a crucial support system for young athletes in Fiji, nurturing their potential, building confidence, and setting the foundation for future successes in athletics. This initiative not only aims to improve individual performance but also to inspire a lifelong passion for sports, potentially leading to elevated representation of Fiji on national and international stages. The future looks bright for these young athletes as they commit to honing their skills and pursuing their dreams.
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