The Fiji Men’s Open and Men’s U23 teams recently conducted their trials at the FMF Gymnasium in Laucala Bay, Suva, allowing coaches and selectors to carefully evaluate all players.
Netball Fiji CEO Vivian Koster expressed her satisfaction with the turnout at the trials, indicating growth for the sport.
She highlighted the establishment of the Men’s U23 squad, which will serve as training partners for the Fiji U21 squad gearing up for the Netball World Youth Cup in 2025.
“I am especially pleased that we have established the Men’s U23 squad that will be the training partners for the Fiji U21 squad,” said Koster.
Koster mentions plans of hosting the Men’s Invitational in July, with teams from Papua New Guinea and possibly Samoa participating.
There is also consideration for a Fiji Men’s tour overseas in the works.
“With men’s netball on the rise, World Netball has engaged in discussions with men’s and mixed netball to strengthen regional hubs and potentially host a Men’s World Cup in the future.
“Fiji, being a vital member of the Oceania hub, is actively promoting the growth of the men’s game through initiatives like the invitational series.”
Koster emphasised on the strategic efforts to expand the men’s netball scene and collaborate with global counterparts, signalling a promising future for men’s netball in Fiji and beyond.
The final squads for both teams are expected to be announced shortly.