Strengthening bonds in the Pacific through sport

Members of Australian Defence Force Sport are delivering a sports officials program in Suva, Fiji, as a sign of the two countries’ shared passion for sport.

CAPTION: Participants of the ADF Sport’s training program for sport officials in Fiji for AFL, netball, rugby league and touch football. Story by Emily Egan. Photo by Flight Lieutenant Chris Moon.

The program, which kicked off on November 21, includes the delivery of level-one coaching, umpiring, strength and conditioning, first aid and wellbeing, as well as gifting a range of equipment to local sporting groups.

Director-General ADF Sport Brigadier Phil Winter said sport promoted Australia’s values and identity and served as a bridge between people.

“Sport is an important diplomacy tool as it brings nations together, builds communities and enhances prosperity through a united passion,” Brigadier Winter said.

“It speaks to who we are and what we stand for, and amplifies Australia’s reputation on the global stage.”

The training program will build capacity in Australian Rules Football, rugby league, netball and touch football, to assist the local competitions attract qualified players and ex-players into sporting officials’ roles to address a shortage.

The program will build on lessons learnt from recent virtual training activities that have already had significant influence in the region.

With the inclusion of netball and touch football, Defence Sport is hoping to increase female participation, which is a priority of the Pacific Team-Up Program.

“Australia values its strong relationship with Fiji and other Pacific nations. We hope this can further strengthen our bonds with a mutual passion for sport,” Brigadier Winter said.

CAPTION: Lieutenant Matthew Mitchell delivered the Federation of International Touch Foundation Coaching Course for officials in Fiji. Photo by Flight Lieutenant Chris Moon.

“These programs have been highly successful, providing accredited sports officials that are critical to the development of sport from community through to elite sporting programs.”

Laiakini Colati, from Nadi Touch Rugby League Club, is one of the participants.

“I will do my level-one coaching course this week, which will help me at my club when I go home,” Mr Colati said.

“We are leaning about how to help those in need through the first aid training, whether this be out on the field, at home or at work – we will know how to make people safe.”

Mr Colati, who took up touch rugby league in 2015, said the skills learned on the course would take him to another level and give his local club a second coach.

“I’ll be able to help my younger brothers and sisters back home. They also play touch rugby league,” Mr Colati said.

“My coach encouraged me to come along this week and learn some new skills so I can help others get involved.

“Sport is a big part of our community.”

A gala day will be held on November 26 at Albert Park in Suva to mark the end of the program.

CAPTION:Amit Kishor, National Rugby League, Fiji Lead Development Officer participates in first aid training in Suva, Fiji. Photo by Flight Lieutenant Chris Moon.

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