Fiji’s athletics community has been deeply affected by the loss of former decathlon athlete and coach Joseph Rodan Junior, leaving a significant gap in the sport. Albert Miller, Rodan’s former coach and a predecessor in the decathlon, expressed the widespread sentiments shared by many athletes and officials during a traditional i-reguregu ceremony held in Lami.
Miller, who played a pivotal role in shaping Rodan’s career, highlighted the impact of his passing on the future of athletics in Fiji. “He still had a lot to contribute to the sport so there’s going to be a vacuum left after he’s gone,” Miller remarked, emphasizing both the talent Rodan had and the potential contributions he would have made. Rodan represented Fiji at two Commonwealth Games, stepping into Miller’s shoes to become the next prominent decathlon athlete for the nation.
At just 17, Rodan had already made history by becoming the youngest gold medalist in decathlon at the Pacific Games, showcasing his extraordinary talent as he amassed multiple gold medals for Fiji in the competition. The current decathlon representative for Fiji, Waisele Inoke, is set to compete in the upcoming 2025 Pacific Mini Games in Koror, Palau, continuing the legacy of resilience and excellence in the sport.
Miller, a distinguished figure in Fijian sports who has proudly represented the nation at events like the Olympic Games and Commonwealth Games, extended his heartfelt condolences to Rodan’s family. He expressed a hopeful sentiment for the future, stating, “We just wish the family well and hopefully his legacy will live on through the programs that we will run in the future.” This sentiment resonates with many who believe that Rodan’s influence on the sport and the community will persist through ongoing athletic development programs in Fiji. The enduring spirit of sportsmanship and dedication showcased by Rodan serves as an inspiration to current and future athletes.