Fiji’s Hockey Team Prepares for the 2024 Oceania Pacific Cup Tournament

The 2024 Oceania Pacific Cup hockey tournament is set to kick off in Suva, Fiji, with seven countries and 16 teams competing in the men’s and women’s competitions. The event, which has been dormant for six years, promises to be an exciting spectacle, with teams gearing up for the shorter, five-a-side version of the game.

The Fiji Men’s Team: A Mixed Bag of Preparation

The Fiji men’s hockey team, led by head coach Shaun Corrie, is facing a mixed bag of preparation ahead of the tournament. With players from the West region not having access to synthetic turf for training, and work commitments keeping many players off the grass and turf, Corrie has had to select a core group of players who can fit into the game plan.

“We’ve had some challenges, especially with players from the West who do not have the privilege of training on a synthetic turf like the one in Laucala Bay,” Corrie said. “Work commitments keep most of the players off the grass and turf too.”

Despite these challenges, Corrie remains optimistic about the team’s chances, stating, “We’re moving along slowly, and hopefully, we can prepare well enough for the tournament.”

The Fiji Women’s Team: On Track

In contrast, the Fiji women’s team is on track according to their coach Alison Southey. With a strong support team in place, including a strength and conditioning coach, Southey believes that her team has been able to overcome some of the challenges they faced in the past.

“Preparations have been very good,” she said. “We’ve had the women come out of the Hockey League season as well as the last Marist tournament. And you know, having them at that certain level and moving into national requirements has its challenges, but we’re really positive and happy with where they are.”

Southey credits the support team for their expertise and experience, stating, “We’ve been fortunate enough to have the different helps and I’m very grateful for what they bring to the table.”

Teams Competing in the 2024 Oceania Pacific Cup Tournament

The tournament will feature eight teams from the men’s division and seven teams from the women’s division. The teams competing include Fiji Nationals, Fiji Warriors, Vanuatu, Tonga, Samoa, PNG, Solomon Islands, New Zealand Fijians, and NZ Heritage Pacific.

Conclusion

As the 2024 Oceania Pacific Cup hockey tournament approaches, it promises to be an exciting event that showcases the skills and determination of teams from across the region. With both the men’s and women’s teams looking strong, fans can expect a thrilling spectacle that will keep them on the edge of their seats.