LAUTOKA is set to strengthen its position as a major sporting centre in Fiji and the Pacific with plans for a new Western Hockey Academy.
Western Hockey Development Trust president Paul Fraser made a presentation earlier this week to the Lautoka City Council and key stakeholders, outlining a vision for a purpose-built academy that could transform the city into a sporting, cultural and economic hub.
Fraser said the Western Hockey Academy would be a dedicated and professionally structured centre focused on hockey development, coaching and high-performance training.
“The academy will provide clear and structured pathways for young players, strengthen school competitions and offer year-round training in a safe, inclusive and inspiring environment,” he said.
He added that the project was designed to support long-term athlete development while also creating opportunities for mentorship and personal growth among youth athletes in the Western Division.
A key feature of the proposed academy is its multi-sport integration. Fraser said the facility would be designed for multi-use, accommodating hockey, futsal and soccer, allowing greater community use and maximising participation across different sports.
The project has received a major boost with formal endorsement from New Zealand Heritage Hockey, an organisation committed to the growth of hockey across the Pacific.
“We are honoured to have the endorsement of New Zealand Heritage Hockey, who recognise the Western Hockey Academy as a strategic step in strengthening hockey development across the Pacific region,” Fraser said.
With upgraded facilities in place, he said Lautoka would be well positioned to host international hockey test matches, regional tournaments and Pacific development camps. The city could also attract visiting teams from New Zealand, Australia and Asia.
“This will lead to increased tourism, higher hotel occupancy, growth for local businesses, greater media exposure and a strong sense of community pride,” he said.
