Judoka Thanks Programme For Her Progress

Judo’s Development Officer Veniana Ravesi has set her eyes on being a part of Fiji Judo history by being a technical official or coach at an Olympic Games and that journey started when she was chosen to be a part of the Women In Sport High Performance Pathway (WISH) programme last week with the support of Olympic Solidarity at the University of Hertfordshire, United Kingdom.

The 23 year old Totoya, Lau was also a part of the 2023 Pacific Games as the youngest Judo technical official.

"I want to extend my sincere gratitude to all who contributed to my participation in the Pacific Games in the Solomon Islands.

"This support has been invaluable, and I am truly thankful for the opportunity to be part of the team that brought this incredible event to life," she said.

She said being the youngest team member and working alongside experienced officials was  a tremendous learning experience for her.

"The responsibilities entrusted to me have not only expanded my skills but have also provided me with valuable insights for my future endeavors," she said.

"While I acknowledge the mistakes I made, I view them as stepping stones for personal and professional growth."

Ravesi said she thoroughly enjoyed collaborating with and learning from her seniors.

"Their mentorship, care, and encouragement have made a significant impact on me, and I want to express my heartfelt appreciation for their guidance.

"I look forward to applying the lessons learned and contributing positively in the future," she said.

Ravesi was identified and selected by International Judo Federation (IJF) as a participant for the WISH programme. The programme is designed to equip women coaches, who have the potential and ambition, to succeed in gaining roles at elite coaching levels within their sport.

The WISH Programme is a joint initiative between Olympic Solidarity and a number of International Federations, bringing together outstanding High Performance Coaches from around the world and providing a unique opportunity and an environment for learning that will support women High Performance Coaches to further develop their coaching skills in a high performance domain, leadership behaviours and confidence to progress their career path.

Taking into account that women represent 10 per cent of coaches at the Olympic Games, the IOC has resolved to coordinate the development of an action plan in collaboration with International Federations (IFs) & National Olympic Committees (NOCs), for more women to be eligible and selected to participate at World Championships and the Olympic Games”.

FASANOC Sports Development Manager, Lyndall Fisher, commended Ravesi for taking up the challenge to bridge the gap in a male dominated sport as well address the lack of women coaches and technical officials across all sports.  

"The WISH programme is a welcomed initiative and FASANOC looks forward to making this opportunity available to more women in the future," she said.

PIC: Veniana and her WISH Mentor Amanda Bennett