Badminton in Fiji, once a vibrant sport at the Pacific Games, has seen a decline in recent years, with serious competitive play largely concentrated at Yat Sen School in Suva. However, revitalization efforts are underway following the election of a new Badminton Committee in August.
Since taking office, the Committee has successfully reconciled financial matters with key organizations, including FASANOC, the Fiji National Sports Commission, and the Badminton World Federation. They have reignited community interest through social events in Suva and facilitated the largest Secondary Schools Tournament the country has hosted in nearly thirty years.
Fiji’s ambitious goal is to have its badminton players qualify for the 2032 Olympic Games in Brisbane. To achieve this, plans are in motion to establish eight badminton clubs across the nation, aiming to recruit over 250 players. The association is committed to providing a comprehensive year-round schedule of competitions and ensuring clear pathways for participation in regional and international tournaments.
By 2032, the Committee envisions Fijian teams consistently outperforming regional foes such as New Caledonia and Tahiti, while aiming to challenge New Zealand in the Oceania Finals. There is also a focus on nurturing semi-professional players who have dedicated their lives to badminton, with aspirations to develop two or three elite athletes who can compete on the global stage.
In a significant move to enhance the sport’s infrastructure, discussions are ongoing with government agencies and ten other national indoor sports associations to establish a new indoor arena in Nadi, which is anticipated to greatly enhance the prospects of badminton in Fiji. This commitment to growth illustrates a rejuvenated dedication to the sport, promising a brighter future for badminton enthusiasts and athletes in the nation.