Suva gears up for Vulaca Championship
THE anticipation is at its peak as the Suva’s men’s and women’s volleyball teams gear up for the highly anticipated HBK Vulaca Championship which starts today.
Under the guidance of seasoned coaches Apenisa Saukuru and Josaia Rasiga, both squads have undergone intense and comprehensive training in the lead-up to the tournament.
Saukuru holds an impressive resume as the head coach and Fiji’s sole internationally accredited FIVB Beach Volleyball Referee.
His background as a former Suva player and representative for
Fiji in beach volleyball and indoor competitions at the Pacific Games provide the teams with valuable expertise.
Saukuru’s dual position as coach and referee provides a unique perspective to the teams’ preparation, emphasizing the significance of mentorship and skill enhancement.
Suva Volleyball Association vice president Semaima Lagilagi said they were fortunate that Saukuru accepted the offer to contribute to the development of young players in both codes.
“It is rare to find former players giving back to the sport, especially in grassroots development.
“The rarity of former players like Saukuru giving back to the sport through coaching and mentoring is acknowledged, making his involvement even more valuable.”
Joji Katia and Waisake Rabuatoka have been appointed to lead the Suva men’s team, with Katia assuming the role of captain due to his wealth of experience and exceptional leadership.
On the women’s side, Vunisei Mateiwai and Diana Waqavakatoga, with their international experiences, the team boasts a well-rounded mix of players, creating an optimistic outlook of the championship.
The HBK Vulaca tournament is set to take place at the FMF Gymnasium in Laucala Bay, Suva over the next two days.
The pools
Men’s category
Pool 1. Suva 1, Kinoya 1, Lami 1, Suva 2. Pool 2 Raiwai 2, MidCentral 2, Kinoya 2, Raiwai 1, Pool 3 Mid-Central 3, Lami 2, Nakasi 2, Nakasi 1. Pool 4 Lami 3, Raiwai 3, Mid-Central 1
Women’s category
Pool 1. Suva 1, Lami 1, Raiwai 1, Raiwai 2. Pool 2 Kinoya 2, Raiwai 3, Lami 2, Kinoya 1. Pool 3 Midcentral 2, Nakasi 1, Mid-central 1, Suva 2. Pool 4 Lami 3, Nakasi 2, Mid-central 3