The Inaugural Kaji Primary School Basketball Launch was held last Friday at 12.30pm to 3:00pm at the Vodafone Arena. All five participating schools were present and these include John Wesley, Holy Trinity, International, Latter Days Saints and Vieuto. The launch was a huge success with approximately 150 students present in their sports uniform.

Aggie Sokosoko and her team of volunteers decorated the Vodafone Arena with banners from the competitions major sponsor Post Fiji, Ministry of Health who contributed to the launch of the “Hooping for Health” theme incorporated with the program and the Hot Bread Kitchen helping to create a colourful environment. A spokesperson from the Ministry of Health- Mrs Salote officially opened the tournament and also spoke to the children about the importance of living a healthy lifestyle.

Present at the launch were the four All Star players whom just returned from Townsville representing Oceania at the U20 Australian National Championships.  Jesse Sikivou was invited to speak to the children on behalf of the All Stars, sharing his experience on his trip and basketball background. Also present was Caroline Whippy the Sectary of Basketball Fiji. A basketball clinic was conducted straight after the launch with the friendly faces of BBQ volunteers smiling in the background. The students thoroughly enjoyed the basketball clinics that were conducted by Mark Seccombe (tournament coordinator) and temporary Basketball Fiji Development Oficer Laisiasa Puamau.

Our BBQ team was made up of volunteers who came down to show their support towards the event. These volunteers consist of players from various clubs and they are Waymann Whippy, Wise Dau, Net, Tevita, Sakenasa and Peni Sokosoko whom cooked a lovely BBQ that all the students enjoyed.

The primary school launch was a huge success with many students enjoying and appreciating the significance of the event and they just can’t wait for the action to begin this Friday.

The U10’s and U14’s will play their two games on the indoor and outdoor courts of International School and the U12’s will play at Raiwai Youth Hall from 1:00-2:30pm.

BASKETBALL FIJI