THE Fiji Amateur Boxing team is using the ongoing Independence Games in Samoa as a crucial steppingstone in its preparations for the Commonwealth Games in July.
A small contingent of three elite boxers is representing Fiji at the tournament, which coincides with Samoa’s 64th Independence celebrations.
The team joined local participants yesterday morning in a commemorative march honouring the island nation’s independence from foreign rule.
Competing for Fiji are Aminiasi Saratibau in the 80kg division, Jone Davule in the 60kg category, and Elijah Qiokata in the 70kg category.
Speaking with Times Sport, head coach Cam Todd focuses on performance improvements rather than just podium finishes.
Todd says the size of the squad was largely determined by both competition requirements and financial constraints.
“We were only able to bring boxers in certain weight divisions, and the Fiji Amateur Boxing Association has had very limited funding, so we couldn’t afford to bring more athletes,” he explained.
Despite the challenges, Todd believes the tournament offers an important opportunity for some of Fiji’s leading boxers to gain valuable international experience ahead of the Commonwealth Games.
“It gives some of our top elite boxers another international bout before the Commonwealth Games,” he said.
The coach is encouraged by the progress shown by his athletes since their last competition and is looking for continued development in Samoa.
“We’ve already seen improved performances from the last competition,” Todd noted.
While victories are always welcomed, Todd said success for the team will ultimately be measured by the improvements made inside the ring.
“Every coach wants their athletes to win, but I’m more interested in seeing the improvements we’ve been working on as we get closer to the Commonwealth Games,” he said.
With the countdown to July’s Commonwealth Games continues, the Samoa campaign provides Fiji’s boxers with a timely opportunity to sharpen their skills and build confidence on the international stage.
The IBS Pro-Am Boxing Event is slated for June 5, featuring a Pacific “Ring of Fire” matchup between Samoan and Fijian boxers at Apia.
