Kumon “Monte” Tarawa believes that the strength of a team lies not only in medals, but in mindset and meaning.
As team manager for Paralympics Fiji, Tarawa is guiding a squad of para-athletes and para-table tennis players who are preparing to represent the nation at the 2025 Pacific Mini Games in Palau.
While many might expect intense gym sessions and training camps, Tarawa says the real focus right now is mental preparation.
“It’s about mindset,” he said.
“We’ve engaged the Team Fiji psychologist to support the athletes through one-on-one sessions, talking about competition standards, mental health and support from home. It’s about being holistically prepared.”
Since beginning preparations in September last year, Tarawa and his coaching team have focused on building a resilient, unified group.
With the games just five days aways, their goal is to return home with at least three or four gold medals, but the journey has already brought its own victories.
“Challenges? Of course. Transport is a major one, many of our athletes can’t access public buses, so getting to meetings and training is difficult. We’ve had to rely on digital tools like messenger and viber to stay connected.”
Funding remains another obstacle. While the Paralympic Committee has paid their levies, athletes have taken up the task of helping raise funds to meet Team Fiji requirements.
But Tarawa insists these struggles build character.
“Without challenges, we wouldn’t know how strong or resilient we are.”
His advice to the athletes is simple, “Be yourself and enjoy the journey. Winning is good, but losing teaches you more. It’s about how you define your win.”
To supporters back home, he adds a heartfelt plea, “Pray for us. Speak positivity to your children. And if you know young people with disabilities, encourage them to join. The door is open. Let them come and shine for Fiji.”
The Mini games is scheduled from June 29 to July 9.
