The Suva Netball Association is heading into the 2026 season with renewed energy following the appointment of a new leadership team and strengthened support structures aimed at improving competition and player development across all levels.
Speaking ahead of the new season, Alumeci Sachs, who is involved in the association’s coaching and development setup, highlighted the progress being made under the new committee.
She noted that the association is now led by president Koila and secretary Una Tawake, supported by competition co-ordinator Master Joshua and umpire co-ordinator Filomena Korovulavula, all working together to ensure a smooth and structured season.
The 2026 competitions are expected to begin on May 23 with the Open Women’s and Men’s divisions.
Clubs across Suva have already begun training in preparation for what is anticipated to be a highly competitive season, which will kick-off this Friday with the Angels under-10 and U13 categories.
Suva Netball continues to receive strong backing from New World, which has been acknowledged for its ongoing support in sustaining competitions and development programs.
According to Sachs, Suva remains one of the strongest netball associations in Fiji, with a large proportion of players representing the national team.
She estimated that around 90 per cent of both men and women’s division players are national representatives, reflecting the depth and talent within the system.
The association is also aligning with reforms introduced by Netball Fiji, including zoning structures designed to strengthen competition across all regions of the country.
However, Sachs also pointed out that facility shortages remain one of the biggest challenges facing the association. Discussions are ongoing with the Fiji Sports Council to secure suitable venues for competitions running from May through August, while longer-term plans are being considered to develop dedicated netball facilities for Suva within the next few years.
The upcoming season is expected to be strong and competitive, with clubs such as CBM, Lomaiviti, Ablaze, and Grasshoppers preparing intensively.
Last season, Suva Netball recorded close to 98 teams across more than a dozen clubs, highlighting the continued growth of the sport.
Sachs also extended her best wishes to schools and associations across Fiji as the netball season begins, including Nasinu, Nadi, Lautoka, and Nadroga, as competitions get underway nationwide.
