Tuwai said although everyone was still fighting for a spot in the team, he was confident that come the Olympics, they are going to be ready to defend the gold medal.
Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka, Minister for Youth and Sports Jese Saukuru and Minister for Labour Agni Deo Singh with National sevens team members and officials for Olympic on June 21, 2024. Photo: Ronald Kumar.
Team Fiji athletes winning medals at the 2024 Olympic Games in Paris, France, will be financially rewarded.
This was announced by Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka, at the Suva Civic Centre yesterday. The Olympic Games is from July 26 to August 11.
Rabuka said the incentive, which has been approved by Cabinet offers $50,000 to gold medal winners, $20,000 for silver medal winners and $10,000 for bronze medal winners.
“This incentive will not only be offered to individual players but to the coaches and management as well,” he said.
Rabuka commended the efforts shown by the athletes in representing the nation at the Olympics and reminded them about the power of sports.
Tuwai: No one works for free
Jerry Seremaia Tuwai with his two Olympic Gold medal winning award from Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka on June 21, 2024. Photo: Ronald Kumar.
World Rugby Sevens Player of the Decade and two-time Olympic gold medallist, Jerry Tuwai, while receiving his $33,000 cheque for his housing, commended the Government for the incentive that has helped boost the players.
“It means a lot to me and we were very grateful to the Government because such incentives push the athlete to perform. No one in this world will work for free. We have families to feed and with this incentive, I believe it will greatly help us.”
Tuwai said although everyone was still fighting for a spot in the team, he was confident that come the Olympics, they are going to be ready to defend the gold medal.
“Four players were dropped last week, and another five are expected to be dropped next week, however, I believe these boys can do it. Even though the team hasn’t been winning, changes have come and I believe those changes will benefit us.”
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