Coach: Year of the fields for Marist

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Biu Colati (right) of Marist, is head-to-head with a Suva Grammar runner in the sub-junior boys 200 metres final, at the Coca Cola Games in Suva, on Sat 26 Apr 2025. Picture: ELIKI NUKUTABU

THIS was the year of the fields for Marist (MBHS).

MBHS head coach Antonio Rabuiliku declared this while crediting the school’s strategic focus on field events for their success.

Rabuiliku noted the team anticipated tough competition on the tracks and adapted their preparation accordingly.

“The plan was to lead, and we did it in the end,” he said.

“We knew it was going to be haywire on the tracks, so we focused our attention on the field.”

Marist’s strength in traditional field events, including throws and jumps, carried the team through close competitions, helping secure their place among the top performers in the boys’ division.

“Hats off to the Marist field coaches, and the track coaches as well.

“The amount of work put in during preparation made the difference.”

He also praised the spirit of competition among rival schools, saying, “I’m so grateful QVS is back, and RKS made their presence known on day one. It’s great for the sport.”

When asked about his future with the team, Rabuiliku said he will reflect on his coaching role.

“I’ll see if Marist still needs my commitment.

“If not, I’m thinking of going into farming and stepping away from coaching for a while, but time will tell.”

The Coca-Cola Games concluded on Saturday, with schools from across the country showcasing months of dedication and discipline.

For Marist, 2025 will be remembered as the year their field strategy paid off, wrapping up a powerful showing at the Coca-Cola Games, collecting 12 gold, 9 silver, and 9 bronze medals.