From Fiji Times (18 August 2022)

Coke Games: Exposure for athletes from Rotuma

By Meli Laddpeter

Our aim is just to expose our athletes to a highly competitive environment, says Nemani Rakadi, the team manager and head of PEMAC at Rotuma High School.

Arriving on Viti Levi for the three-day 2022 Coca-Cola Games with six athletes, Rakadi said he looked forward to the competition.

"Exposure is the main reason for our participation here at the Maritime Zone and the students are excited to be here," he said.

Rakadi said the squad had been camping in Suva for the past four days and the support they received from the Rotuman community in Suva was a blessing.

"We have been visited by Rotuma High School supporters and they have been supportive."

The team is made up of four track athletes and two field event athletes who are vying for action.

"The biggest challenge in us coming here to Suva was our airfare which was paid for by our sports committee."

He said fundraisers had to be carried out to help ease the financing for the students travelling to Suva.

"The students are excited to be back competing after a period of two years due to the COVID pandemic. We as a team are very thankful for all the support shown by the school and the parents of the athletes."

Rakadi gave credit to the Almighty for the opportunity to participate in the competition and they were hopeful in their participation during the finals.