The Fiji Para Table Tennis team has made a remarkable impact at the 2025 ITTF-Oceania Para Championships in Auckland, New Zealand, showcasing their talents and resilience from September 26 to 28. Competing in a Para Table Tennis Festival that featured 48 athletes from eight nations, including 15 Paralympians, the Fijian team managed to capture 1 gold and 5 bronze medals, earning a commendable third place on the overall medal tally behind Australia and New Zealand.
The team, coached by Harvi Yee, included talented athletes such as Merewalesi Roden, Akanisi Latu, Iakoba Taubakoa, Eparama Lagi, and Jone Vukinamualevu. Merewalesi and Akanisi, who have been pivotal in the Fijian sports scene, continued their success from the 2025 Pacific Mini Games in Palau by securing gold in the Women’s Doubles Sitting C3–5 category in Auckland. They also each won a bronze medal in the Women’s Singles Sitting C3–5 category, demonstrating their individual prowess.
Iakoba Taubakoa contributed further to Fiji’s success by earning a bronze medal in the Men’s Singles C4–5 and teaming with Eparama Lagi for another bronze in Men’s Doubles Sitting. Additionally, the Mixed Doubles Sitting event saw Mere combine with Kope for a bronze, while Jone partnered with another competitor to claim bronze in Men’s Doubles Standing. Each Fijian athlete at the championships returned home with a medal, underscoring the team’s collective triumph and the pride of the Fijian sports community.
The journey to Auckland was not without its hurdles, as limited funding and resources challenged their training and logistics. Contributions from the Fiji Vocational Technical Training Centre, FASANOC, the Smash Down Barriers Program, and last-minute financial aid from the Fiji Holiday Inn were instrumental in alleviating these difficulties. Internal challenges within the Fiji Table Tennis Association also complicated the team’s preparation, highlighting the need for improvement in support and facilities to ensure better outcomes in the future.
The Auckland championships are also seen as a stepping stone for the 2026 World Para Championships, with official qualification still to be confirmed. Athletes like Mere and Akanisi stand as strong contenders to represent their country on the global stage, pending further announcements.
As they look toward upcoming events, including a training camp and the New Zealand Para Open, the Fijian team will continue to build on their achievements. Their performances in Auckland and Palau affirm the power of determination and communal backing, setting an inspiring example for the future of para sports in Fiji. The athletes’ accomplishments not only boost national pride but also fuel optimism for Fiji’s continued sports success worldwide.