A NEW and exciting development has emerged for student athletes in the Nakasi corridor with the formation of the Naikaciwa Athletics Club.
Officially registered in 2023, the club was established to bring together primary and secondary schools in the Nakasi area and provide a dedicated platform for nurturing athletic talent.
One of the club’s coaches, Victoriano Raikaisau, explained its origins and purpose:
“For the past four years, we have been working to create a club that gathers schools under one banner to nurture young athletic talent,” said Raikaisau
We noticed a gap as many renowned clubs do not represent the Nausori region. Our club now fills that void.”
At present, the Naikaciwa Athletics Club has between 30 and 40 athletes, with 15 to 20 regularly attending training sessions.
The athletes come from several schools including Nakasi Primary, St. Joseph the Worker, Bainivalu, Davuilewu, Wanibuku Primary, and secondary schools such as Bawani Dayal, Nashinu Muslim, with the majority from Nakasi High School.
Raikaisau highlighted the inclusive and community-supported nature of the club:
“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,” he said.
The club has already achieved notable success. Since its inception, Naikaciwa athletes have performed impressively at the national Coca-Cola Games.
In 2022, the club managed to defeat established competitors, including Lelean Morial School winning the Triple N zone.
The following year, they secured nine medals and finished sixth overall in the 2023 Coca Cola Games.
“That was a big achievement for us,” Raikaisau said proudly. “We thank God, the parents, the management, and all who believe in our programme,” he said.
Looking forward, the club has ambitious plans for the 2026 Coca-Cola Games and beyond. Raikaisau encourages 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,” said Raikaisau.
The establishment of the club represents a significant boost by fostering talent at the grassroots level within the Nakasi corridor and offering pathways for young athletes to excel locally and nationally.
