CHIEF GUEST: FIJI SPORTS COUNCIL MANAGER LEGAL, DR. JALESI NAKARAWA
DATE: WEDNESDAY 19 JULY 2023 | VENUE: REGIONAL TENNIS COURTS, LAUTOKA | TIME: 4:00PM
- The Pacific Development Officer – International Tennis Federation, Mr Gary Purcell;
- Tennis Australia – Community Coaching Expert, Ms Natalie Delamarta;
- Representative of the Oceania Tennis Federation & Executive Member of Tennis Fiji, Mr Richard Breen;
- The Head Referee, Ms Robyn Tucker;
- Representative Officials of Pacific Oceania Regional Office;
- Officials of the Respective Federations;
- President of Tennis Fiji, Mr Romil Patel, and Members of Tennis Fiji Executive Board;
- Distinguished Guests;
- Players, Coaches, and Managers;
- Ladies & Gentlemen.
Good afternoon and a warm Fijian welcome to you all.
On behalf of the Executive Chairman, Fiji Sports Council Board, and Acting Chief Executive Officer, Gilbert Vakalalabure, thank you for the invitation to say a few words to you this afternoon, as we come to the end of the 32nd Pacific Oceania Junior Championship, here at the Regional Tennis Courts in Lautoka.
It has been an honour to witness remarkable display of skill, determination, and sportsmanship from each and every one of you. Congratulations on reaching the pinnacle of this prominent championship.
Each one of you is a winner, having won the regional qualifiers securing your spot in the POJC. You should be immensely proud of your achievements. Whether you won or not, I am reminded of the quote, and I am certain that you have heard it before – “It’s not the winning, but the taking part that counts.” In the spirit of competition, participation, indeed, counts. And you would not have chosen to continue with the sport of tennis if you didn’t think the same, and the very act of participating drives you to achieve your potential.
But beyond the scores, rankings, and trophies, I hope that this championship outing has brought you something far more valuable—friendships. Throughout these intense matches and shared experiences, I sincerely hope that you have made new friends, and stepped out of your comfort zone to reach out to your fellow team mates from other Pacific Island countries. As you return to your respective countries, I encourage you to cherish these connections.
Some of you may go beyond to participate in international competitions. When you do – remember that you represent your family, your school, your country, and you represent the larger Pacific Oceania region. For all of that – you should be proud.
Let us acknowledge the invaluable support and guidance provided by your coaches, mentors, families, and friends. Their unwavering belief in your abilities and their tireless efforts have played an instrumental role in your success. Please join me in expressing our heartfelt gratitude to these remarkable individuals, who have dedicated themselves to nurturing the next generation of tennis stars. [CLAP HERE]
As we bring the 2023 Pacific Oceania Junior Championship to a close, let us also extend our appreciation to the organizers, officials, and volunteers, who have worked tirelessly behind the scenes to ensure the smooth running of this event. I hope that you have also enjoyed the renovated venue. The refurbishment of the Regional Tennis Courts is work in progress, and as representative of the Fiji Sports Council, we aim to continue with the upgrade of the venue, for better a sporting experience.
To conclude, may your journey in tennis be filled with happy moments, success, and continued growth. And may the friendships forged here remain, reminding us that, in the end, it is the people we meet and the connections we make that truly define our experiences.
Remain focused. Be humble. Fly your country flag high. And safe travels to your respective destinations.
Once again – Congratulations.
Thank you and Vinaka Vakalevu.
ENDS