Paul Fraser, president of the Marist Hockey Club, has raised concerns over the escalating costs of sporting venues, which are increasingly hampering the growth and development of various sports. The financial burden of maintaining and utilizing these venues is placing immense pressure on sports clubs, making external sponsorships crucial for the continuation of sports events. Fraser highlighted this issue while acknowledging the essential support from their sponsor, Temo Consultants, which was vital in facilitating the recent Eastgate Memorial Hockey Tournament. Without such backing, financial constraints resulted in the cancellation of four other planned tournaments.
This issue is not isolated but reflects a broader challenge in the country where the rising expenses associated with sports venues threaten the sustainability of events and the wider sports sector. The Eastgate Memorial Hockey Tournament, an important fixture in the Fiji Hockey Federation’s calendar, would have also faced cancellation if not for external financial support. The tournament’s resumption this year after a four-year pause due to the COVID-19 pandemic and necessary facility upgrades highlights its significance in promoting competitive play and showcasing regional talent. The event attracted participation from 14 teams across the country, underscoring its role in advancing the sport.
Despite these challenges, Fraser maintains a hopeful outlook for the future of sports development, advocating for sustainable strategies to address venue cost and sponsorship issues. By finding innovative solutions, there is potential to overcome these obstacles and ensure that sports in the country can continue to grow and thrive.