The Suva One athletics team is gearing up to defend its title in the Under 14 boys’ division at the upcoming Tuckers Ice Cream Primary Schools athletics championship this weekend. Head coach Bill Momo shared insights during an interview with SUNsports, highlighting the team’s focused preparations and the support they’ve received from local stakeholders, including school heads, teachers, and parents.
Momo expressed confidence in the team’s readiness, noting that they have entered the pre-competition phase and are keen to address any weaknesses from last year’s performance. In addition to vying for the boys’ title, he mentioned that they are also aiming to excel in the girls’ division.
Despite facing challenges posed by adverse weather conditions, the team has successfully adapted its training methods, often changing venues to ensure consistent practice. Momo shared that the early training sessions were intense, but they have set specific targets for athletes to achieve in terms of times and distances. The recent Fiji athletics meet organized by Athletics Fiji offered a valuable opportunity for them to assess their performance.
Momo emphasized the increasing professionalism of athletics in Fiji, noting the involvement of specialist coaches such as Antonio Raboiliku and Rajen Prasad, which has further enhanced their training. He also highlighted the efforts of Athletics Fiji in providing coaching accreditation opportunities to teachers in rural areas and outer islands.
As they prepare for competition, Momo acknowledged that rival districts would also be striving for victory, with every team seeking gold medals. He credited the strength of Suva One to the support from guardians and local schools.
The coach also expressed appreciation for the participation of students competing for the first time, viewing their involvement as a win for everyone. He extended his best wishes to all competing districts and welcomed the Wallis and Futuna athletics team, which promises to add to the competitiveness of the event.
The exciting championship is set to take place at the HFC Bank Stadium in Suva from November 28 to 29. The event not only showcases athletic talent but also fosters growth and community support, further enriching the experience for young athletes.
This championship is a promising platform for young talents to shine and underscores the growing enthusiasm for athletics in the region. With collective efforts from coaches, parents, and the community, the future looks bright for these aspiring athletes.
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