Augustine Shaw, at just 22 years old, recently made his national debut for Fiji in the Oceania Hockey Pacific Cup held in Suva, a moment he has envisioned since he was eight years old. His journey in hockey was sparked by his older brother, Anthony Shaw, and fueled by watching local idols such as Hector Smith Jr. and Terrence Corrie.
Shaw’s passion for hockey began in primary school, and he continued to cultivate his skills through high school at Marist Brothers High School and later Mount Roskill Grammar School in Auckland, New Zealand. He noted that the transition between playing hockey in Fiji and New Zealand presented both challenges and growth opportunities, thanks to the high-quality coaching he encountered overseas.
Inspired by his brother’s achievements with the Fiji U18 team, Augustine Shaw dedicated himself to reaching similar heights, which ultimately led him to represent Fiji at the Pacific Cup. His debut was particularly meaningful as it took place in front of loved ones and alongside some of the players he had long admired.
Shaw aims to refine his knowledge and skills in the sport, acknowledging the importance of continuous learning, especially with the support of experienced coaches in Fiji. His inspiration is further fueled by witnessing the success of the Fiji Hockey teams, which won gold at the 2023 Pacific Games.
With his debut now behind him, Shaw has set his sights on participating in the upcoming Pacific Games, expressing determination and commitment regardless of whether he secures a spot.
This story is a testament to the power of perseverance and the impact of family and community support in nurturing talent. Shaw’s journey not only represents personal achievement but also serves as an inspiration to young athletes in Fiji and beyond, encouraging them to pursue their passions with dedication and resilience.
In summary, Augustine Shaw’s debut at the Pacific Cup marks the beginning of what promises to be an exciting career in hockey, driven by inspiration from those around him and a commitment to continuous improvement. His aspirations for the future reflect a hopeful outlook for both his personal journey and the broader sporting community in Fiji.
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