Fiji swimmers prepare for PNG comp
Twenty- two (22) swimmers have been selected to represent Fiji to the 2018 Oceania Championship in Port Moresby, Papua New Guinea on June 24-27.
Speaking to SUNsports yesterday, Fiji Swimming head coach Sharon Smith said this was the biggest number of swimmers ever selected for the championship as preparations are on track.
“The swimmers had been really committed to their preparations for the Oceania championship,” she said.
“The fitness test conducted today went well for swimmers as they proved to be on track. There will be a widespread of events for the swimmers and it will be interesting to see them perform.”
Smith said top swimmer Matelita Buadromo has pulled out because of injury. “We are looking forward to a great week of competition at the championship and hopeful to win medals as we will be competing against our counterparts within the Oceania region including swimmers from Australia, New Zealand and Hawaii.
“But the fact that if we win medals it will be an indication of where we stand in next year’s Pacific Games.”
Team manager, Lucy Erasito said most of the swimmers were selected from the recent Fiji National Schools Swimming Championship.
“We have five coaches for the competition. They are Rosemary Rova, Sharon Smith, Marlene Blake, Paula Cokanasiga and Ester Malani.
“The coaches have conducted their medical and fitness test and also it is a bonding opportunity for the swimmers to know each other.”
The Fiji Swimming team and officials will depart for Port Moresby on June 23.
Squad: Male- Bobi Mosese, Netani Ross, Calum Lobendan, Damien Kitiona, Eugene Kado, Hefu Erasito, Kalen Eyre, Tevita Fofoti, Jayzon Requina, Oakley Johns, Hansel Mccaig, Taichi Vakasama, Epeli Rabua (c) Female- Yolani Blake, Jane Smith, Marion Kotobalavu, Ella Rasau, Rokowati Mara, Jodie Puamau, Moana Wind, Rosemarie Rova, Cheyenne Rova (c)