AS the new year kicks off, Fiji’s men’s national netball team and the Fiji Pearls are back on court, with renewed focus and determination to lift the game to greater heights.
Head coach Jioweli Vakamoce, who also steps in as interim coach for the Pearls until a new head coach arrives in March, is clear on the task ahead.
“We’re not just preparing for tournaments; conditioning is a daily commitment for our athletes,” Vakamoce said.
“Our goal is to raise the standard and push the teams to perform better on the international stage.”
The first training camp of the year started with fitness testing, delayed slightly due to scheduling issues, but now completed.
These tests are crucial in assessing where the players stand after their individual training programs during the break.
The results will assist the coaching management in drafting specific training regimes specifically for each player.
For the Fiji Pearls, 2024 is packed with important fixtures, including the World Cup qualifiers and the All-Sports Series.
Securing a spot at the World Cup is a priority, and the team is preparing to meet that challenge head-on.
On the men’s side, preparations are underway for their second international invitational tournament after last year’s successful debut.
An overseas tour to Singapore is also on the cards, providing vital exposure and experience.
Vakamoce emphasised the importance of consistent conditioning as a foundational component to achieving their goals and objective for the new season.
“Fitness and training must continue beyond tournaments and throughout the year. It’s about maintaining and improving every day,” he said.
With a clear vision and strong leadership, Fiji’s netball teams are set to raise the bar and enhance their standing on the international netball scene in 2024.
The journey to greater success has begun, and the nation will be watching closely.
