It’s finally back after a two-year wait because of the global impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. Yes, the Fiji Secondary Schools Athletics Association (FSSAA) national final commonly known as the Coca-Cola Games gets underway this Thursday and ends on Saturday at the HFC Bank Stadium in Suva.

Despite, the high inflation rate, FSSAA general secretary Vuli Waqa said they were expecting a record number of athletes participating. So far, FSSAA has confirmed 137 schools and about 3000 athletes to be at the stadium.

This does not include the number of spectators, as the organisers are expecting another sell-out crowd. The indication was on the number of parents, guardians and old scholars who braved the rain as they lined-up outside the FSSAA headquarters at McGregor Road in Suva when the ticket sales opened last Thursday. The Coke Games fever has once again gripped the Capital City.

However, as we cheer on for our schools it’s best that we are reminded to keep adhering to the health protocols. We’re not out of the woods as yet. COVID and other associated diseases are still around- so it’s best that we do all that we can to stay healthy.

Visit a Health Centre close to you or wear a mask to the event at Laucala if you are coughing and not feeling up to it.

For parents and guardians make sure that your children are well-taken care of if they are going to watch the games.

Arrange for their pick-ups if you can and if not always keep in touch (on a constant basis) with them on their whereabouts.

They are to go home after the games and should not be found loitering in the city. Don’t leave the care of your children at the hands of strangers or a distant relative even though they may look or sound convincing.

Keep reminding your children not to accept packages even from people they know when entering the stadium.

This is for their safety as in most cases illegal substances are often found in those packages. They should seek Police help if they are being hassled, lost their belongings or the need to contact their parents, guardians or teachers.

Most importantly in every sporting event there is always one winner, and the need to show good sportsmanship as this could avoid unnecessary brawls.

Every responsible adult should play their respective role to avoid any mishap and make this year’s Coke Games, a safe and memorable one.

Feedback: leonec@fijisun.com.fj