BADMINTON Fiji has kicked off a special month-long competition aimed at encouraging young girls to embrace the sport and develop their skills in a safe and supportive environment.
The initiative, organised by Badminton Fiji vice president – development and para, Jocelyn Caine, is designed to provide girls with a space to enjoy the game, make new friends, and foster a love for badminton beyond their usual circles.
“This was done specifically for the month of February – the month of love,” Caine explained.
“For them to have the love of the game, first love yourself, love the game. It’s only for girls because they don’t have many sports opportunities, so this is a safe space with girl teachers, where they can connect and grow.”
The competition is open to girls across several age groups, including under-13, under-15, under-17, and under-19 categories.
Talented participants will be selected from the event to form development squads for the national teams.
Close to 40 young athletes have registered for the competition, which runs every Saturday throughout February from 10 am to 12 noon.
The participants came from various schools in the Suva Nausori corridor, including Dilkusha School in nine miles and Nakasi High School.
“We’ve had to limit numbers to around 30 at each session to ensure the children get enough time on court,” Caine explained.
“So far, it’s been great to see such enthusiasm and commitment from the girls.”
In addition to selections for the development team Caine is also using the month-long event to prepare the young girls for the upcoming school’s competitions.
She noted that this will mark the first time a secondary school badminton competition is held, scheduled for the long weekend of Ratu Sukuna Day.
With events like these, Badminton Fiji aims to strengthen grassroots participation and build a strong foundation for women’s badminton in the country.
