As the new year begins, Fiji’s men’s national netball team and the Fiji Pearls are poised for an exhilarating season filled with ambition and a commitment to enhance their performance. Under the direction of head coach Jioweli Vakamoce—who is also temporarily coaching the Pearls until a new head coach is appointed in March—the teams are united by a clear vision for their upcoming journey.
Vakamoce shared his perspective, stating, “We’re not just preparing for tournaments; conditioning is a daily commitment for our athletes.” His aim is to elevate the standard of performance and ensure that both teams compete successfully on the international stage.
The first training camp of the year kicked off recently, including fitness testing to assess players’ conditions following their individual training during the break. Although there were minor delays caused by scheduling conflicts, these assessments are essential for customizing training programs that cater to each player’s specific needs.
The Fiji Pearls are gearing up for a rigorous year ahead, with high-stakes fixtures like the World Cup qualifiers and the All-Sports Series on the calendar. The team is focused on mounting a strong campaign to secure a place at the World Cup—an ambitious target they are ready to tackle.
Simultaneously, the men’s team is preparing for their second international invitational tournament after a successful inaugural outing last year. An overseas tour to Singapore is also in the works, which promises to provide critical exposure and experience, paving the way for future competitions.
Vakamoce emphasizes the importance of consistent conditioning as a foundational element for reaching their goals in the upcoming season. “Fitness and training must continue beyond tournaments and throughout the year. It’s about maintaining and improving every day,” he asserted.
With solid leadership and a well-defined pathway in place, Fiji’s netball teams are eager to elevate their presence on the international scene in 2024. The journey toward greater achievements has begun, and the nation is excitedly anticipating the outcomes as the teams strive for success.