THE Fiji Secondary Schools Athletics Association (FSSAA) has assured athletes and parents that firm steps have been taken to ensure a smooth and fair Coca-Cola Games following an officiating incident at the Suva Zone Two athletics meet, where an official bumped into an athlete, knocking him down during his 400 metres event.
As a result of the fall, the athlete finished in fourth place, failing to qualify for the Coca-Cola Games.
FSSAA Secretary and Competition Director Biu Colati said the association moved quickly to address the issue and reinforce confidence ahead of the finals.
“I can assure you that that will not happen,” Colati said.
He confirmed that officials and team managers will undergo a full-day briefing prior to the competition, with a strong focus on tightening procedures.
“That is why we are going to be having almost a full day of briefing with our officials and managers. We are going to be vigilant on that,” he said.
Colati acknowledged the concern caused by the incident but noted it has prompted stronger oversight moving forward.
The FSSAA also reached out to the affected athlete, offering support to ensure he still has a pathway to qualify under the new system.
“We assured him that if he found it hard to get to the qualifier, we would be able to assist him,” Colati said.
The association worked through zone officials, teachers and coaches to ensure the message reached the athlete.
“We told the zone to inform the teachers and coaches that if he needed assistance to get into the qualifier, we would step in to help,” he added.
With stricter officiating measures and a more flexible qualifying system now in place, Colati said the focus is firmly on delivering a fair and highly competitive Coca-Cola Games.
The combination, he believes, will ensure the spotlight remains where it should be — on performance.
The 2026 Fiji Finals will be held from next Thursday to Saturday at the HFC Bank Stadium in Suva.
