The athletics community in Fiji and the wider Oceania region is mourning the passing of Joseph Rodan Junior, known affectionately as JJ, who died at his home in Lami on Tuesday. Jone Delai, a former Pacific sprint champion, paid tribute to JJ, highlighting his unwavering dedication as a coach, respected administrator, and passionate advocate for athletics. Delai reminisced about JJ’s disciplined approach and his eagerness to foster the potential of young athletes.
The Oceania Athletics Association (OAA) also expressed its sorrow over JJ’s death, honoring him as a significant figure in both national and international athletics. The OAA recognized his far-reaching impact, noting that his influence extended well beyond Fiji’s borders.
JJ’s athletic journey was remarkable, having represented Fiji at two Commonwealth Games in 1998 and 2002, along with participation in numerous South Pacific Games, Mini Games, Oceania Championships, and Australian Championships. He was a standout athlete, securing three gold medals in decathlon and making headlines as the youngest male athlete to win gold in that event at the South Pacific Games when he was just 17. His competitive spirit also resulted in national records in pole vault and hurdles, including the Oceania Area Indoor record for the 50-metre hurdles.
JJ’s contributions transcended his individual accomplishments. He was instrumental in promoting athletics within Fiji and the broader Oceania region, serving as the Chief Development Officer and Interim Vice-President of Athletics Fiji. He was responsible for managing national teams and playing a crucial role in securing substantial sponsorships to support the sport. Additionally, JJ founded the Trailblazers Athletics Club and was actively involved in youth development initiatives, striving for modern governance and strategic planning within Athletics Fiji.
His commitment to fostering opportunities for athletes and coaches across the Pacific was exemplified during his tenure on the Oceania Athletics Association Council from 2019 to 2023, where he led the Development Commission. JJ was awarded the Oceania Athletics Association Merit Award in 2016 and was inducted into the Fiji Sports Hall of Fame in 2019. He also took on the responsibility of team manager for Fiji during significant events such as the 2018 Commonwealth Games on the Gold Coast and the 2019 Pacific Games in Samoa.
Robin Sapong Eugenio, President of the Oceania Athletics Association, reflected on JJ’s lasting legacy, asserting that his dedication and support for athletes would be fondly remembered. The impact JJ has left behind will endure through the many athletes he inspired and the vital programs he established, serving as a lasting testament to his generosity and deep commitment to the sport he loved.