Nadi Hockey Set For Marist Tournament
Considered underdogs but looking to turn heads, the Unitex Garments Nadi hockey team are preparing well-for this year’s annual Marist Hockey tournament,
which is scheduled at the National Hockey Centre in Suva from September 27-29.
Team manager Chad Eastgate said, the team comprise of young and experienced players that would do well in the month’s tournament. The team’s uniform is provided by Unitex Garments for the meet and they are grateful for the support. “We hope to encourage participation in the sport and strengthen enthusiasm in the Western division especially here in Nadi.
“The Marist Hockey tournament is the most coveted event in the Fiji Hockey calendar and we’re looking forward to a great outing this year,” said Eastgate.
Unitex Garments managing director, Bipin Rathod said “they are happy to support the Nadi hockey team and continue our support for hockey.
“As we have done previously with the Fiji national teams. It’s great to see a group of individuals contributing towards growing the sport and for some they’re giving back what they all enjoy,” he said.
Playing midfielder for the side is Kurk Simpson whose love for hockey has been instilled in him from his grandfather’s passion for the sport.
Having represented Nadi hockey for over 15 years, Simpson said the team is very family oriented and prides itself on the bond and support amongst the players.
“I look forward to the Marist Hockey tournament every year because it brings out the best in everyone and it is an awesome event to be a part of.”
Marist men’s hockey club vicepresident, Martin Fong said, apart from hosting the biggest tournament, they would like to revive the sport in the various districts like Nadi, Lautoka, Ba and Levuka.
“The inclusions of these districts and other international teams raise the level of hockey and talents on display.”
Fong added the tournament also presents the players with an opportunity to get recognised and hopefully be in contention for a spot on the national teams.
“To encourage participation at the tournament, the club will also be providing various assistance to these district teams.
“The teams will travel down to Suva ahead of the tournament to get the players used to the turf and mentally prepared to claim the Reginald Eastgate Trophy this year,” he added.