Young sprints into Pacific top five – FBC News
Fiji sprint star Heleina Young has underlined her place among the Pacific’s best after finishing fifth overall in the Pacific Islands Women’s Athletics Top 10 Rankings for 2025. Based on the latest World Athletics rankings as of December 23, Young is the highest-ranked Fijian sprinter on the list, earning an overall score of 967 points to place her among the region’s very best across all track and field events. The rankings are led by Papua New Guinea’s Adrine Monagi, followed by compatriot Leonie Beu, with Isila Apkup third. Article continues after advertisement Young’s fifth-place finish puts her ahead of several established names from across the Pacific and underlines her growing consistency on the international stage. Unlike event-specific lists, the Overall World Athletics Rankings compare athletes from all disciplines using a performance-based scoring system. Each competition result earns a Performance Score, calculated by combining an athlete’s result score and placing score. An athlete’s best five performances during the ranking period are then averaged to determine their overall ranking score. For Young, the ranking reflects not just raw speed, but sustained performance against quality fields throughout the season — a key marker of elite-level athletics. Her rise into the top five is another positive sign for Fiji athletics, particularly in the sprints, as the country continues to build depth and competitiveness ahead of major regional and international meets. Oceania Athletics has confirmed that the Top 10 Pacific male athletes and overall Oceania rankings will be released soon, as attention turns to the next wave of standout performers across the region. Stream the best of Fiji on VITI+. Anytime. Anywhere.
Auvray joins Bula FC ranks – FBC News
Kaile Auvray. [Source: Bula FC/Instagram] Bula FC continue to strengthen their squad, with dynamic winger Kaile Auvray emerging as the latest player to pull on the club’s colours. Auvray arrives with a wealth of international experience, having tested himself against some of world football’s biggest stars, including Lionel Messi, Luis Suárez, Alphonso Davies, Leon Bailey, Michail Antonio, Jordi Alba and Jonathan David during his professional journey. Born in France and raised in the United States, the wide attacker was immersed in the game from an early age, beginning his football journey at just five years old. Article continues after advertisement His development took place across elite environments, first at the LOSC Lille Academy in France before continuing at Sporting Kansas City’s academy system in the US. His professional career has since spanned several regions, including a highly successful stint with Cavaliers SC in Jamaica. During his time there, Auvray claimed the Jamaica Premier League title, lifted the Caribbean Cup and featured in the CONCACAF Champions Cup, highlighted by a high-profile appearance against Inter Miami. Auvray has also spent time in Major League Soccer with Columbus Crew, further sharpening his game at the highest level in the region. On the international stage, his résumé is equally impressive.He has represented France at under-17 level, the United States at under-16 level and most recently earned senior international honours with Trinidad and Tobago. Under the guidance of national coach and former Manchester United striker Dwight Yorke, Auvray featured in the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers, the 2023 CONCACAF Gold Cup and the 2024 Copa América playoffs. The addition of Auvray adds pace, versatility and valuable experience to the Bula FC squad, as the club continues to strengthen its lineup for the challenges ahead. Bula FC will meet Vanuatu United FC in their first match on the 17th of next month in Auckland, New Zealand. Stream the best of Fiji on VITI+. Anytime. Anywhere.
Konagaya brings rising sun spark to Bula FC – FBC News
[Source: Bula FC/Instagram] Bula FC have added international class to their midfield with the signing of Japanese playmaker Yuta Konagaya, a move that signals growing ambition ahead of the OFC Pro League season. Konagaya’s football story began at just six years old in Japan, when a simple decision to join a local club with a close friend sparked a lifelong love for the game. What started as fun soon turned into focus, and over the years the industrious midfielder has carved out a career built on consistency, adaptability and experience across two continents. Article continues after advertisement His journey has taken him through some of Australia’s competitive football environments with St George Saints, Blacktown City and Port Melbourne, before making the leap to Europe. In Greece, Konagaya tested himself in the second division with APS Zakynthos, later returning to Australia with Weston FC, before resuming his European chapter with Episkopi FC and most recently Aegious Plomariou. Along the way, his performances did not go unnoticed. Konagaya was named in the Best XI of his group in 2020, and again earned Best XI honours in 2023, underlining his influence and consistency in midfield. Now, the Japanese midfielder arrives at Bula FC eager to make his mark in a new environment and help drive the club forward. “It’s an honour to be part of the team and personally it’s a new challenge. I have a strong desire to achieve something with Bula FC and I am willing to help the team be the best. It’s also a new challenge for the club and the league. I’m so excited and really looking forward to playing on this new stage.” With his international experience, technical quality and hunger to succeed, Konagaya shapes as a key addition for Bula FC as they prepare for the demands of the OFC Pro League. Bula FC will meet Vanuatu United FC in their first match on the 17th of next month in Auckland, New Zealand. Stream the best of Fiji on VITI+. Anytime. Anywhere.
Crossroad power past Ucuna to Tui Suva glory – FBC News
Crossroad came out firing at this year’s Tui Suva Volleyball Tournament, knocking out defending champions Ucuna in straight sets this afternoon at Suvavou Village. The win carried extra meaning as the tournament marks its 35th year, a milestone that has grown into a cherished tradition for families from across Fiji and around the world who return home every Christmas and Boxing Day. Team spokesman Atunaisa Kepa, who anchors the side in the power position, says this year’s trophies have been dedicated to two of their own, the late John and Inoke, making the tournament a time of remembrance as much as competition. Article continues after advertisement Kepa adds that the hope is for the children of Suvavou Village to continue the legacy and keep the tournament alive for generations to come. After bowing out at the semi final stage last year, Crossroad showed renewed hunger and belief, proving too strong this time around despite having just one week of preparation together as a team. Attention now shifts to their next challenge, the Tui Suva Trophy, which will be contested on New Year’s Day at the same venue, as Crossroad look to carry their momentum into the new year. Stream the best of Fiji on VITI+. Anytime. Anywhere.
Fijiana eye historic three-peat at Coral Coast Fiji 7s – FBC News
[File Photo] The Fiji Airways Fijiana sevens side will return to Sigatoka next month with history on the line, chasing a third straight title at the McDonald’s Coral Coast Fiji 7s as the Shangri-La Yanuca Island Women’s Division shapes up as the most competitive edition since its introduction in 2012. Back-to-back champions, Fijiana head into the 2026 tournament riding strong momentum under head coach Richard Walker, with the squad continuing to build depth, cohesion and a high-tempo brand of sevens rugby that has become their hallmark on the international stage. Walker believes the team’s steady progression has placed them in a strong position, while acknowledging the challenge that lies ahead. Article continues after advertisement “We’re really pleased with how the group is tracking. The players are developing well, the connection within the squad is growing, and we’re playing some great sevens rugby. To be chasing three in a row is special, but we know it will take our very best with the quality of teams coming to Sigatoka.” That quality will be on full display in 2026, with the women’s division set to feature a formidable international field, including Chinese Women’s National Teams 1 and 2, alongside other elite overseas sides eager to test themselves against the reigning champions on Fijian soil. “The standard of the women’s division continues to rise every year. Strong international competition is exactly what we want. It pushes us, sharpens our game and helps prepare us for the demands of the world stage.” Since its inception, the Shangri-La Yanuca Island Women’s Division has grown into a centrepiece of the McDonald’s Coral Coast Fiji 7s, providing a high-quality platform for women’s rugby and consistently delivering compelling match-ups at Lawaqa Park. With national pride, silverware and a rare three-peat at stake, Fijiana’s title defence is set to be one of the defining storylines of the 2026 Coral Coast Fiji 7s. The 7s tournament starts on the 15th of next month at Lawaqa Park in Sigatoka. Stream the best of Fiji on VITI+. Anytime. Anywhere.
Major shift sees Drua focus on growth – FBC News
Swire Shipping Fijian Drua forwards coach Chris Gibbes says the team is undergoing a major shift, with clear signs across the organisation that the club is moving in the right direction ahead of the new Super Rugby Pacific season. Gibbes says while there is still a lot of work to be done, the Drua are in a much better space compared to this time last year. He admits that by the team’s own standards and expectations, last season’s results were disappointing, despite some strong moments of growth. Article continues after advertisement Gibbes says that honest reflection has driven a renewed focus this pre-season, particularly around mindset, attitude and a greater willingness to put in the hard work required to improve. Over the past six to seven weeks, the forwards coach says the squad has combined skill-based rugby work with a stronger emphasis on physical preparation, with players responding well to the demands. He says the group has been putting in the work and the results have been encouraging. Gibbes adds that every new season brings excitement, especially with changes in personnel, new players joining the squad and fresh dynamics within the group. He says the return of the Flying Fijians will soon bring the squad back together, strengthening preparation as the Drua build towards the season proper. Looking ahead, Gibbes says there is plenty to be excited about, including games in Lautoka, the Super Round in Christchurch and seven home games on Fijian soil. He says the team is determined to step up and grow from where they were at the same time last year, with a clear goal of delivering stronger performances for their supporters back home. Stream the best of Fiji on VITI+. Anytime. Anywhere.
Successful outing for Kaunikuila Basketball – FBC News
Kaunikuila Basketball Club players and officials. [Photo: MELI LADDPETER] The Kaunikuila Basketball Club has stamped its mark in New Caledonia during its tour last week, after a remarkable outing against the country’s local teams. The team was invited to compete at the Olympic De Nouméa Basketball Club’s annual tournament. According to Kaunikuila president Ben Nasau, their girls managed to finish in third place on the 5×5 competition, and second in the 3×3. Article continues after advertisement The boys managed to finish in second place in both competitions. He labels their tour as a successful one and couldn’t be prouder of their achievements. ‘This tour marks a milestone and a huge step forward for Kaunikuila Basketball Club and basketball development in Fiji. Providing our players with international exposure builds confidence, character, and belief that they can compete at a higher level,” The club returned home last week. Stream the best of Fiji on VITI+. Anytime. Anywhere.
Walker sends festive cheers to Fijiana 7s family – FBC News
Fiji Airways Fijiana 7s coach Richard Walker has sent a heartfelt Christmas message to fans, players and families, acknowledging the vital role their support plays in the team’s success. Speaking in the spirit of the festive season, Walker thanked supporters across Fiji and abroad, as well as the families of players and management, for standing behind the national side throughout the year. Walker says while the team continues to work hard on and off the field, the encouragement and backing from their families and loyal fans gives the players extra motivation and strength. Article continues after advertisement He described the Christmas period as a time to reflect, reconnect and recharge, encouraging everyone to enjoy the festive season safely with loved ones. The Women’s Sevens coach also looked ahead to the new year, saying the team is excited about the tournaments coming up and looks forward to sharing more special moments with supporters in 2026. Walker ended his message by wishing everyone a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year as the team prepares for another big year on the world stage. Stream the best of Fiji on VITI+. Anytime. Anywhere.
Bula FC Signs young Afazal for 2026 OFC Pro League – FBC News
18-year-old Ibraheem Afazal. [Photo: Ibraheem Afazal/Facebook] Bula FC head coach Stephane Auvray has strengthened his squad for the 2026 OFC Pro League by signing 18-year-old Ibraheem Afazal, following an impressive trial earlier this month. Afazal, who joins from Sydney Olympic FC, quickly caught Auvray’s eye, earning his first professional contract after showcasing his skill and potential. Article continues after advertisement Born and raised in Sydney, Afazal carries strong Fijian roots—his father hails from Nadi and his mother from Labasa. Inspired by his older brother and supported unwaveringly by his parents, his passion for football began at an early age. His development through the Australian football system included stints with Mounties Wanderers FC (U9–U13) and APIA Leichhardt FC (U14–U18), where he consistently stood out on bigger stages. Afazal has also made his mark internationally, representing Fiji at U17 and U19 levels, earning Man of the Match honors in OFC competitions. Reflecting on his signing, Afazal described the professional contract as a dream realized—not just for himself, but for his family who have been a constant source of support throughout his journey. Stream the best of Fiji on VITI+. Anytime. Anywhere.
Sports Minister urges unity and safety this festive season – FBC News
Minister for Youth and Sports and Acting Minister for Women, Children and Social Protection Jese Saukuru. [Photo: FILE] Minister for Youth and Sports and Acting Minister for Women, Children and Social Protection Jese Saukuru has called on Fiji’s sporting community to embrace the true spirit of Christmas by promoting unity, safety and healthy living. In his Christmas message, Saukuru extended warm greetings to young people, athletes, coaches, administrators and volunteers, acknowledging their continued contribution to youth development and nation building through sport. He said Christmas was a time for reflection and gratitude and noted that the values celebrated during the festive season were the same values learned through sport including teamwork, discipline, respect and unity. Article continues after advertisement Saukuru encouraged young people to reflect on the year that had passed, celebrate their achievements and set new goals for the year ahead, urging them to continue striving for excellence both on and off the field. The Minister highlighted the important role sport plays in bringing communities together and promoting healthy lifestyles, encouraging families to remain active and use the holiday period to strengthen bonds through positive sporting and recreational activities. He also stressed the importance of safeguarding children during the festive season, calling on families and communities to ensure children are protected, supervised and nurtured at all times. Saukuru urged communities to remember elderly citizens and persons living with disabilities, saying simple acts of kindness such as a visit or a shared meal could make a meaningful difference. He reiterated the need for women and girls to feel safe and respected, stating there was no place for violence or abuse in homes or communities, especially during a season that celebrates peace and goodwill. Saukuru said strong families were the foundation of a resilient nation and encouraged everyone to look after one another, particularly the most vulnerable. He wished all Fijians a Merry Christmas filled with peace, joy and blessings. Stream the best of Fiji on VITI+. Anytime. Anywhere.