Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka highlighted the vital role of sports in promoting unity and encouraging athletes to surpass their limits. During a celebration of the achievements of athletes, administrators, coaches, and management in 2023, Rabuka invoked the well-known words of the late Nelson Mandela, illustrating how sports have contributed to nation-building in Fiji.
“The late Nelson Mandela once said that ‘sport has the power to change the world.’ Here in Fiji, we recognize this truth,” Rabuka stated. He emphasized that sports have the ability to unite, inspire, and challenge individuals.
Rabuka noted that 2023 was a particularly active year for sports, with athletes participating in several major events, including the 2023 Pacific Games in the Solomon Islands, the Rugby World Cup in France, and the Netball World Cup in South Africa. “Our athletes are not just competitors; they are ambassadors for our nation, representing the hopes and dreams of all Fijians. Every time you wear the national uniform or jersey, you fly our flag proudly,” he added.
During the awards ceremony, Fiji Swimming secured two honors, with Anahira McCutcheon being named the Unit Trust of Fiji Young Female Athlete of the Year and Trisa Cheer receiving the Sports World Technical Official of the Year award. Fiji Rugby also performed well, with Simon Raiwalui earning the FIJI Water Coach of the Year award and the Flying Fijians being recognized as the Asco Motors Team of the Year.
The Vodafone Youth Male Athlete of the Year and the Fiji Sports Council Sportsman and Woman of the Year awards went to Nehemiah Elder, Taniela Rainibogi, and Miriama Taletawa from Weightlifting Fiji. Netball Fiji was named the Sports Organization of the Year, while Anushil Kumar from Fiji Football was honored as the ONOC Hanisi Erasito Administrator of the Year. Astral Smith was awarded the Lawhill Wines Volunteer of the Year, and Jonacani Lalakobau from The Fiji Times won the Photograph of the Year award for 2023.