Students from Saint Joseph’s Secondary School (SJSS) recently took part in an athletics trial at the HFC Bank Stadium, aiming to identify promising young athletes for the upcoming Suva Zone meet. The event, held on Saturday, was led by Joseph Rodan, a former Fiji athlete and current SJSS athletics coach. Under his guidance, the team focused on harnessing and enhancing the athletic potential of the students.
Rodan commended the voluntary support from fathers and teachers, noting the longstanding commitment to the trials. The primary goal of this trial was to evaluate the girls’ athletic abilities, particularly those who had participated in off-season training over the holidays. An impressive total of one hundred girls demonstrated their dedication by actively engaging in training since the beginning of the term.
During the trial, encouragement played a vital role as Rodan motivated participants to enjoy their training sessions and embrace the journey toward the upcoming zone competition and Coca-Cola Games. He highlighted the importance of skill development while fostering a passion for the sport.
Rodan also extended an invitation to former students, parents, and community supporters to rally behind the athletes as they prepare for the competition. Looking ahead, a second athletics trial is scheduled for week seven, offering further opportunities for athletes to shine.
This initiative at SJSS underscores the significance of community support in nurturing young athletes, a sentiment echoed in regions like Labasa where local schools and sporting councils are collaborating to develop athletic talent. Such efforts not only enhance individual skills but also contribute to building a strong athletic community for future success.
The enthusiasm and commitment exhibited by the students signal a hopeful future for athletics in Fiji, as these aspiring athletes prepare to showcase their talents on larger platforms. This collective effort not only aids in their individual growth but also strengthens the sporting culture within the community.
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