Fiji, the host country for the 2016 Oceanic Championships set to be held later this month in Suva, has named a team of 27 set to compete at the competition. The team features 14 men and 13 women, along with four coaches.
The full roster is as follows:
Males (14): William Clark, Paul Elaisa, Kalen Eyre, Tevita Fotofili, Oakley Johns, Eugene Kado, Meli Malani, Epeli Rabua, Netani Ross, Viliame Takayawa, Gordon Thompson, Taichi Vakasama, Gordon Whippy and Temafa Yalimaiwai.
Females (13): Yolani Blake, Matelita Buadromo, Aimee Elaisa, Tieri Erasito, Marion Kotobalavu, Rokowati Mara, Chanel Marley, Adi Kinisimere Naivalu, Ella Jane Rasau, Adele Rova, Cheyenne Rova, Rosemarie Rova and Moana Wind.
Coaches (4): Sharon Smith (Head Coach) and Marlene Blake, Douglas Miller and Rosemary Rova (Assistant Coaches).
Two members of the team, Meli Malani and Matelita Buadromo, represented Fiji at the World Championships last August in Kazan. Malani placed 52nd in the 50 freestyle and 84th in the 100 freestyle, while Baudromo finished 55th in both the 100 and 200 freestyle.
One of Fiji’s two medalists from the 2014 Oceanic Championships in Auckland will compete this year, with William Clark looking for a second straight medal in the 100 back after winning bronze two years ago. Other top finishes in Auckland on the men’s side included Oakley Johns (5th, 1500 free), Gordon Thompson (6th, 100 back), and Taichi Vakasama (6th, 200 breast). Malani also had a good showing, including a 5th place finish in the 50 breast.
The women’s side saw some good results as well including Tieri Erasito (5th, 100 and 200 fly), Ella Rasau (5th, 200 back), and Rosemarie Rova (5th, 200 IM). All return to compete again this year.
The XI Oceanic Championships will be held in Suva, Fiji from June 19th-25th.
Find the full release on the Fiji Swimming website here.
Go Fiji Go!!