THE Fiji Islands Baseball and Softball Association (FIBSA) has expressed its heartfelt gratitude for the timely donation of sporting equipment from the Fiji Association of Sports and National Olympic Committee (FASANOC).
This generous contribution comes as the baseball team intensifies preparations for the upcoming Palau 2025 Pacific Mini Games, emphasising the importance of player welfare and wellness during training.
Lyndall Fisher, sports Development manager at FASANOC, commented on the significance of this support: “We are thrilled to assist the Fiji Islands Baseball and Softball Association in their preparations for the Pacific Mini Games.
“The equipment provided will not only enhance the training experience for the athletes but also ensure that they have the necessary tools to develop their skills effectively.”
The equipment donation includes essential training items such as water bottles, various types of cones for drills, super bands, practice golf balls and specialised recovery tools like the Myosphere circular massager and muscle knot out roller.
The equipment will play a crucial role in the team’s training regimen, which has already commenced with a focus on fitness and physical conditioning.
The baseball squad has kicked off its training program, having conducted its first fitness test last month.
This initial assessment was aimed at collecting vital physical data on the players, which will be instrumental in tailoring their training programs.
Coach Inoke Niubalavu, emphasised the importance of the fitness tests, stating, “We will conduct fitness assessments every month to monitor our players’ physical conditions.
“Additionally, we are looking forward to quarterly strength and conditioning testing to ensure our athletes are in peak form as we approach the Mini Games.”
The commitment to player welfare is evident in the structured approach to training, which includes regular fitness evaluations and the integration of new equipment to enhance performance.
The donation from FASANOC is a significant boost to these efforts, allowing the team to focus on their development without the added concern of inadequate resources.
FASANOC has announced that a small allocation of funds is available for the purchase of sporting equipment, prioritising sports included in the 2025 Pacific Mini Games program and the 2026 Commonwealth Games.
This initiative is part of a broader strategy to support sports development across Fiji, with grants provided through Olympic Solidarity via the Oceania National Olympic Committees (ONOC).
In addition to the baseball equipment, FASANOC has received requests from various sports for additional items, including stopwatches, loud hailers, walkie-talkies, and strength and conditioning tools. This comprehensive support underscores FASANOC’s commitment to enhancing the capabilities of national federations as they prepare for regional competitions.
With the Pacific Mini Games on the horizon, FIBSA is poised to make significant strides in its development.
The integration of new training equipment and a structured fitness program will undoubtedly contribute to the athletes’ performance and overall well-being.
As the team continues its preparations, FASANOC’s support and the coaching staff’s commitment will play a pivotal role in shaping the future of baseball in Fiji.
The association remains optimistic about its prospects and is eager to showcase its talent on the regional stage in 2025.
