A thrilling development has emerged for student athletes in the Nakasi corridor with the establishment of the Naikaciwa Athletics Club. Officially registered in 2023, the club aims to unite primary and secondary schools in the Nakasi area, providing a dedicated platform for nurturing athletic talent.
Victoriano Raikaisau, one of the club’s coaches, shared the motivations behind its creation. He stated, “For the past four years, we have been working to create a club that gathers schools under one banner to nurture young athletic talent. We noticed a gap as many renowned clubs do not represent the Nausori region. Our club now fills that void.”
Currently, Naikaciwa Athletics Club boasts a roster of 30 to 40 athletes, with 15 to 20 attending training sessions regularly. The athletes hail from several schools, including Nakasi Primary, St. Joseph the Worker, Bainivalu, and Davuilewu. Secondary schools represented include Bawani Dayal and Nashinu Muslim, with the majority coming from Nakasi High School.
Raikaisau emphasized the club’s community engagement and inclusivity, stating, “We are not charging fees; athletes just bring a water bottle and come ready to train. Parents have been very supportive, encouraging their children to attend sessions regularly.”
The club has already seen notable success in its short existence, with Naikaciwa athletes performing impressively at the national Coca-Cola Games. In 2022, the club triumphed over established competitors, including Lelean Memorial School, winning the Triple N zone. The following year, they earned nine medals and finished sixth overall in the 2023 Coca-Cola Games. “That was a big achievement for us,” Raikaisau said, expressing gratitude toward God, the parents, and the supporters of their program.
Looking ahead, the club has ambitious plans for the 2026 Coca-Cola Games and beyond. Raikaisau invites young athletes in the Nakasi corridor to join: “If you don’t have a coach or a place to train, the club is open to you. Come to Nakasi High or contact us. We are here to develop your fitness and athletic skills.”
The formation of the Naikaciwa Athletics Club is a significant milestone in fostering athletic talent at the grassroots level within the Nakasi corridor, creating opportunities for young athletes to excel both locally and nationally. This initiative not only strengthens the community but also provides a hopeful avenue for the next generation of athletes to thrive.