Repeka Koroi and Veronika Rabuliwaisavu, students from Vudibasoga Catholic School in Seaqaqa, Macuata, have been awarded full scholarships by Mahatma Gandhi Memorial (MGM) High School to further their education. This opportunity comes in recognition of their impressive performances at the 2024 Tuckers Ice-Cream Fiji Primary Schools Athletics Championships held last month.
Koroi, hailing from Korovuli Village, clinched two gold medals in the Under-14 girls’ 800m and 1500m races. Rabuliwaisavu, from Lomaloma Village, secured gold in the Under-13 girls’ 400 meters and silver in the 200 meters event. Both young athletes expressed their gratitude towards their coach and teacher, Iosefo Apisai, who has been instrumental in their training.
Coach Apisai expressed pride in his students, noting that they were hostel students, allowing for a more rigorous training schedule. He mentioned that under his guidance, Vudibasoga Catholic School achieved the highest medal tally among 12 schools in Macuata South, with a total of five gold, three silver, and two bronze medals.
Repeka Koroi aspires to be a primary school teacher and is the dux of her year. She dedicated her achievements to her father, thanking him for his support and sharing her dream of representing Fiji at the Olympic Games. Veronika Rabuliwaisavu shared her excitement about being the first in her family to receive a medal and a scholarship. She expressed her gratitude to her father, a yaqona farmer, for his blessings in pursuing her passion for running.
The head teacher of Vudibasoga Catholic School, Inoke Biaunisala, expressed satisfaction with the performance of his students, highlighting that last year, a female student was selected for a similar scholarship, and the number has now increased. He emphasized the school’s commitment to preparing more students for opportunities in the future.
This inspiring story showcases the dedication and hard work of young athletes, the supportive role of educators and families, and the bright future that awaits these talented students. Their achievements not only bring pride to their communities but also serve as a reminder of the potential that lies in nurturing talent in schools. The success of Koroi and Rabuliwaisavu reflects the positive impact of sports on education, fostering both personal and academic growth.
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