The Fiji Association of Sports and National Olympic Committee (FASANOC) has proudly announced a significant milestone as Team Fiji’s Performance Psychologist, Krishneel Maharaj, has successfully completed the International Olympic Committee’s Diploma in Mental Health in Elite Sport. This prestigious one-year program, which was funded by an Olympic Solidarity scholarship, is designed to equip professionals with evidence-based strategies and tools aimed at enhancing the mental wellbeing of athletes throughout their careers.
Maharaj has been a vital part of FASANOC for several years, volunteering as Team Fiji’s psychologist during major international competitions such as the Gold Coast 2018 Commonwealth Games, the Samoa 2019 Pacific Games, and the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games. With a Master’s in Sports Coaching from The University of Queensland, he is also a registered psychologist based in Brisbane, showcasing his dedication to the field.
Reflecting on the influence of this diploma, Maharaj expressed, “The Diploma was a game-changer. It deepened my understanding of the mental health challenges elite athletes face and provided practical tools I can apply immediately.” His training allowed him to gain insights from global experts, emphasizing the crucial role mental health plays in high-performance sports.
FASANOC has expressed eagerness for Maharaj to disseminate his newly acquired knowledge through webinars and workshops, focusing on early intervention and fostering mentally healthy environments for athletes. This initiative is in line with ongoing efforts to raise mental skills awareness among Team Fiji, especially as athletes from Fiji and the Pacific Islands prepare for the upcoming Brisbane 2032 Olympic Games.
Maharaj, a former athlete himself, brings personal insights into the mental challenges experienced by competitors. He highlighted that elite athletes often face mental health challenges at rates comparable to or exceeding those of the general population, reinforcing the need for mental health considerations in athletics. Maharaj noted, “This Diploma isn’t just a qualification. It’s a toolkit for change and has helped me grow as a practitioner.”
FASANOC also extends its gratitude to Olympic Solidarity and the IOC for their support of this professional development initiative. Maharaj’s commitment to improving the mental wellbeing and performance of Fiji’s athletes is expected to foster positive dynamics within Team Fiji as they approach their future competitions.
This achievement represents not only a personal triumph for Maharaj but also a widespread commitment within Fiji’s sports community to prioritize mental health and wellbeing. The optimism surrounding this development signifies a hopeful trajectory for Fijian athletes, aiming for excellence in both performance and mental resilience on the international stage.