Norwegian biathlete Bakken dies aged 27 – FBC News
Norwegian biathlete Sivert Guttorm Bakken, who had been hoping to compete at the Winter Olympics in February, has died aged 27. Bakken returned to competition in 2024, having been kept out since 2022 with the heart condition myocarditis. The president of the International Biathlon Union said his return to the sport had been “a source of immense joy”. Article continues after advertisement “Sivert’s comeback to biathlon after a period of great hardship was a source of immense joy for everyone in the biathlon family and an inspiring demonstration of his resilience and determination,” Olle Dahlin said. “His passing at such a young age is impossible to comprehend but he will not be forgotten and he will forever remain in our hearts.” Local media reported that Bakken was found dead in his hotel room in Lavaze, in the Italian Alps, where he had been attending a training camp. Stream the best of Fiji on VITI+. Anytime. Anywhere.
Kaunikuila Basketball shines on New Caledonia tour – FBC News
Photo Supplied Kaunikuila Basketball Club has taken a major step forward in its development after a successful tour of New Caledonia earlier this month marking a milestone moment for the Fiji-based club on the regional basketball stage. Competing against quality opposition, Kaunikuila fielded both girls’ and boys’ teams in 5×5 and 3×3 competitions, using the tour as a platform to test their progress, build confidence and gain valuable international exposure. The results reflected the club’s steady rise. Article continues after advertisement The girls’ team finished third in the 5×5 competition and claimed second place in the fast-paced 3×3 format. The boys matched that strong showing, securing runners-up finishes in both the 5×5 and 3×3 competitions. Kaunikuila Basketball Club founder and president Ben Nasau described the tour as a defining moment in the club’s journey. “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.” A major boost for the touring squad was the guidance of former Team Fiji coach and current FIBA representative Laisiasa Puamau, whose leadership played a crucial role throughout the campaign. His experience in preparation, game management and player mentorship helped the teams adapt quickly to the competitive environment in New Caledonia. Beyond the podium finishes, the tour delivered important long-term benefits. Players were exposed to different playing styles, sharpened their tactical understanding and developed resilience through high-level competition, while also growing in discipline, teamwork and leadership off the court. As Kaunikuila Basketball Club looks ahead, the New Caledonia experience stands as a landmark achievement one that has strengthened belief within the club and laid a solid foundation for its continued contribution to the growth of basketball in Fiji. Stream the best of Fiji on VITI+. Anytime. Anywhere.
Schools look beyond traditional sports – FBC News
Jeremiah Raibevu College principal Merewalesi Tuloma says sport remains a powerful tool in keeping students positively engaged, particularly during the festive season. This year, the school broadened its sporting horizons by introducing badminton, an initiative that has already delivered encouraging results, including a podium finish for one of its students. Tuloma says exposing young people to a wider range of sports helps keep them active, focused and motivated beyond the classroom. Article continues after advertisement She is also urging parents and guardians to look beyond traditional codes such as rugby and athletics, and to support opportunities when they arise. “We usually see that in schools we stop at athletics and rugby, but here is another sport where there are talents in our schools. Students need to have a taste of badminton and other sports so they can stay occupied and not resort to misbehaviour or drugs. It’s the holidays, but they remain interested because victory is sweet and it’s sweeter when it comes from commitment and dedication.” Tuloma believes initiatives like this can contribute to reducing social issues within the community. Badminton Fiji is currently on a break and is expected to resume activities next month. Stream the best of Fiji on VITI+. Anytime. Anywhere.
Sigatoka District School to honor rising rugby stars on Sports Achievements Wall – FBC News
[Photo Supplied] Sigatoka District School is set to celebrate its rugby legacy as two of its standout talents, Rupeni Raviyawa and James Tuituba, proudly return wearing their Junior All Blacks jerseys. Raviyawa, from Nasama Village, Nadroga, with maternal links to Nasigatoka Village, now attends Feilding High School in Wellington, New Zealand. Tuituba is the second SDS Rugby Academy alumnus to reach this milestone, reinforcing the Academy’s reputation for producing world-class talent. Article continues after advertisement Head of School Sevina Tove says the Academy has nurtured boys who are defying the odds, pursuing rugby dreams both locally and internationally. “The SDS Rugby Academy is not just about rugby. It’s about shaping young men building resilience, character, and strength. These boys are champions on and off the field.” Tove also acknowledged Ratu Kadavulevu School for continuing to absorb Year 8 boys from Sigatoka, helping them develop both on the rugby field and academically. “This year, four boys are awaiting interviews to secure their place at Ratu Kadavulevu for 2026. The two boys now in New Zealand also went through this pathway from Sigatoka District School to Ratu Kadavulevu, and then securing scholarships for New Zealand. It’s a testament to the strength of our grassroots rugby development programme.” Sigatoka District School has long been a breeding ground for national rugby representatives. Past stars such as Watile Tuinagiagia, Ratu Meli Kurisaru, Rupeni Nahiga (Senior), Adriu Nadredre, Peni Tove, Epi Satavu, Napolione Vitau, Ratu Tevita Makutu, Sikeli Kunaqio, Sikeli Basiyalo and the late Aminiasi Natuiyaga have all contributed to the school’s proud rugby history. To honor these achievements, the school is dedicating a space on the HT Office Sports Achievements Wall. [Photo Supplied] Framed jerseys and photos of alumni representing local and international clubs will be displayed as a lasting inspiration for the next generation. Alongside Raviyawa and Tuituba, alumni such as Ratu Jone Ulunisau, Mesake Tove, Josateki Tuituba, Sikeli Basiyalo and Joseva Tamata continue to make their mark, proving that Sigatoka’s Academy produces not only talented players but also strong, well-rounded young men. Stream the best of Fiji on VITI+. Anytime. Anywhere.
Sotutu signing signals bold new era for Newcastle Red Bulls – FBC News
Hoskins Sotutu. [Source: BBC Sport] Newcastle Red Bulls have made a powerful statement of intent ahead of next season with the signing of star No.8 Hoskins Sotutu on a three-year deal. The 27-year-old New Zealand international arrives with a reputation as one of Super Rugby’s most destructive back-rowers and is expected to add instant impact to the Gallagher Premiership. Capped 14 times by the All Blacks, Sotutu brings experience, size and attacking firepower as the Red Bulls push towards the top end of the domestic and European game. Article continues after advertisement Sotutu enjoyed a standout spell with the Blues, scoring 31 tries in 80 Super Rugby appearances. His influence peaked in 2024 when he played a central role in steering the Auckland-based side to the Super Rugby title, earning the competition’s MVP award in the process. Standing at 1.92 metres and weighing 112 kilograms, Sotutu is renowned for his athleticism, powerful ball-carrying and ability to offload in contact, qualities that have made him one of the most sought-after forwards on the market. Newcastle Red Bulls sporting general manager Neil McIlroy said the signing underlined the club’s growing ambition. “This is a huge signing which brings major firepower into the club and sends a message around the league. Hoskins was in demand from other teams, but he has seen what is being planned at Newcastle Red Bulls and wants to be part of it. He’s an X-factor player who will get people off their seats and shows we really mean business.” Sotutu said the club’s vision played a key role in his decision to move to England. “I am excited to be committing to Newcastle Red Bulls’ project and competing in the Gallagher Premiership week in, week out. The club made it clear how ambitious they are, and I’m looking forward to getting started. I’ve enjoyed my time at the Blues and want to finish on a high before hitting the ground running in the North East.” With Sotutu’s arrival confirmed, Newcastle Red Bulls have laid down a clear marker as they build towards a new chapter, anchored by one of world rugby’s premier No.8s. Stream the best of Fiji on VITI+. Anytime. Anywhere.
Jackson double powers Senegal past Botswana – FBC News
Nicolas Jackson scored two goals in Senegal’s 3-0 win over Botswana. [Photo: BACKPAGE PIX] A brace from Nicolas Jackson powered Senegal to a dominant 3-0 win over Botswana in their opening Group D match of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations in Tangier. Playing in torrential rain, the 2021 champions controlled proceedings from the outset, with Botswana goalkeeper Goitseone Phoko keeping the scoreline respectable early on with saves from Sadio Mane and Iliman Ndiaye. Jackson broke the deadlock five minutes before half-time, sweeping home a cross from Ismail Jakobs, before adding his second in the 58th minute with a composed finish. Substitute Cherif Ndiaye sealed the result late on. Article continues after advertisement The win sends Senegal top of Group D on goal difference ahead of DR Congo, with the two heavyweights set to clash next. Botswana, still searching for their first-ever Afcon win, face Benin in their next match. Stream the best of Fiji on VITI+. Anytime. Anywhere.
DR Congo open AFCON with narrow 1-0 win over Benin – FBC News
Theo Bongonda scored the only goal in the 16th minute of the game. [Photo: GETTY IMAGES] DR Congo began their 2025 Africa Cup of Nations campaign with a 1-0 victory over Benin in Group D in Rabat. Theo Bongonda scored the only goal in the 16th minute, firing home after Benin defender Yohan Roche misjudged a long ball forward. The Leopards had chances to extend the lead, with Cedric Bakambu denied by VAR and Benin goalkeeper Saturnin Allagbe, while Benin came closest late on through Aiyegun Tosin, whose effort flashed across goal. Article continues after advertisement Despite 10 minutes of stoppage time, DR Congo held on to secure three points and will now face Senegal in a key Group D clash, while Benin turn their attention to Botswana. Stream the best of Fiji on VITI+. Anytime. Anywhere.
Young hoopers gather in numbers at basketball tourney – FBC News
[Photo: FILE] More than 50 basketball players from across the Central Division came together yesterday for the Hoops of Giving tournament at Vodafone Arena in Suva. The tournament had a special twist, with participants asked to bring gifts as part of their registration, which will be donated on Christmas Day. The competition featured boys and girls in age groups ranging from under-nine to under-19. Article continues after advertisement Tournament coordinator Marjorie Levaci says that with these age groups only having a single national basketball tournament each year, this type of events can help them with offseason preparations. “So today we have a tournament going on, it’s a three on three tournament, which features grades from under-nine, under-11, under-13, under-15, 17 and 19. And the kids had to enter with a fee and a gift, that will be donated to children who are less fortunate.” The tournament was being hosted by a club of mother’s called Bounce Back, with the aim of getting children involved in basketball. She adds that their aim at the moment is to formally form the club, so they can host more tournaments throughout the year. Stream the best of Fiji on VITI+. Anytime. Anywhere.
Venue availability still a major challenge for Basketball Fiji – FBC News
Basketball Fiji President Olive Whippy says while there are ambitious plans to grow the sport nationwide, several challenges continue to slow progress. Chief among them is the ongoing shortage of suitable playing venues, which remains the biggest obstacle for the sport’s development. Article continues after advertisement With a busy 2026 season on the horizon, Whippy says Basketball Fiji has been forced to adapt and make the most of the limited facilities currently available. Despite the constraints, the focus remains firmly on preparing national teams for major international competitions scheduled next year. “Our biggest challenge is finding venues. And if there’s venues, whoever pays more gets the venue, even though we’ve booked it. So yes our biggest issue is finding venues to run competitions.” Fiji’s basketball calendar includes two major international commitments in 2026, with the Commonwealth Games in Scotland in June, followed by the Asian Games in Japan in September. Stream the best of Fiji on VITI+. Anytime. Anywhere.
HPU Academy intake signals focus on long term excellence – FBC News
Players during their training session at Albert Park in Suva. [PHOTO: FIJI RUGBY UNION] Sixty players from across the country have been selected to join the Fiji Rugby Union High Performance Unit (HPU) Academy, strengthening the union’s commitment to building depth and achieving long-term success on the global stage. The group, made up of 30 men and 30 women, took part in an intensive two-day camp that brought together talent from Suva, Nadi, Sigatoka, Nadroga, Nasinu, Kadavu, and Namosi. One of the standout stories is the return of Tokasa Seniyasi, a former Fijiana 15s and 7s representative, who has rejoined the high-performance pathway after overcoming injury setbacks following the Tokyo Olympics. Article continues after advertisement Her comeback highlights resilience, determination, and the power of second chances. As Fiji continues to compete against Tier 1 nations, developing and refining an elite player base has become increasingly vital. The HPU Academy focuses on the country’s top 60 athletes, ensuring a targeted approach to high-quality development and sustainable excellence. Stream the best of Fiji on VITI+. Anytime. Anywhere.