History, Fiji Wins First Gold at Deaf Games

History was made at the Australian Deaf Games on Monday when the Fiji women’s side won gold for the first time in Lake Macquaie, Newcastle on Monday.

The Fijian side played three games of which they won two and lost one. They accumulated nine points that gave them the win.

“This is the international first ever win for Fiji Deaf Women Rugby 7s team in history,” said Krishneer Sen who is also an official of the side.

“This is the first time for the women to play rugby; it is history in the making.”

Fiji beat New South Wales Barbarians 19-0 and 33-14 but lost 17-10 in the last game.

Prior to their departure chief manageress Leona Tamainai confirmed the 30 athletes were listed in the sevens rugby (men and women), touch rugby, mixed netball and athletic events - 100metres, 200m, 400m, 800m, 1500m, shot put and discus.

Fiji Deaf Women Rugby 7s team.

Six officials travelled with the team.

“Our athletes have been training since August last year and we aim to bring back more medals than when we first participated in the 2018 ADG,” Tamainai said before they flew out Friday last week.

The Fiji National Sports Commission gave a grant of $60,538 to assist the Fiji contingent for the ADG 2024.

The Games started on January 13, featuring more than 1000 competitors from all over Australia, New Zealand and Fiji, across 20 sports.

“What’s extra exciting about this event is that it’s also the first Oceania Deaf Games, whereby Pacific countries have been invited to attend and compete,” Deaf Sports Australia Vice President, Kathryn Armfield she said.

“The Australian and Oceania Deaf Games is not just a multi-sport event but also a major social and cultural celebration of the Australian Deaf Community,” she said.

Feedback: karalaini.waqanidrola@fijisun.com.fj