Makelesi Bulikiobo is hap­py with the level of fitness in the 25 member squad preparing for the 2019 Netball World Cup in England on July 12-21.

The Fijian Pearls strength and conditioning coach was satisfied with the players’ punctuality to training and attitude compared to last year. The squad completed their general preparation phase and concluding their specific prep­aration phase.

“For strength and conditioning, we have plans in place. We have a higher turnout from the girls and that’s positive for us,” Bulikiobo said.

“We have another two weeks be­fore we come to our pre-compe­tition phase preparation and I’m grateful with the players’ attitude during training. They listen, fol­low instructions and our fitness level now is better to where we were at this time last year.”

The young players are bonding well with the senior reps and the return of experienced campaign­ers like Taraima Rara Mitchell, Maria Rusivakula and Matila Waqanidrola has boosted prepara­tion.

“The young girls are bonding in well with these experienced play­ers and are improving on their fit­ness level.”

Injury free

With the World Cup preparation started late November last year, Bulikiobo was impressed with the injury-free squad.

“It is a positive sign for us, when we don’t have injuries, now our key area is to improve on strength, speed and conditioning side since they will be playing against the gi­ants of the sport,” she said.

“During competition our main aim is to improve our ranking.”

Fijian Pearls are currently in 14th place in the world.

Edited by Osea Bola