Fiji's historic debut at the International Handball Federation (IHF) Women's Youth World Championship is under threat as players and their families race to raise the funds needed to get the national Under-18 handball team to Romania next month.
The 12-member squad is preparing to become the first team from the Pacific Islands to compete at the IHF Women's Youth World Championship, which will be held in Romania from 29 July to 9 August.
However, a parent of one of the players says uncertainty over funding has left families scrambling to cover travel costs despite earlier discussions about financial assistance.
The parent says the Fiji Sports Commission had initially been expected to cover the bulk of the team's expenses, but the Federation was later informed that providing the funding would be difficult.
They say they are unsure why the funding did not eventuate, although it coincided with the end of the financial year and the lead-up to the National Budget.
According to the parent, accommodation support has since eased some of the financial burden, with China offering to cover the team's week-long stay in Hong Kong during transit and organisers in Romania are expected to provide accommodation during the championship.
The parent says the main challenge now is raising enough money to pay for airfares, local transport, uniforms and contingency expenses.
The parent adds that families initially faced costs of around $13,000 per player, although that amount has since reduced following the accommodation support.
Parents have continued fundraising individually while the Fiji Handball Federation seeks sponsorship from businesses and other organisations.
A fundraising event has also been organised this week to help meet the remaining costs, while the Federation continues discussions with potential sponsors and remains hopeful additional support may still be secured.
He says the team must finalise visa applications, insurance and other travel documentation by next Friday to ensure they can participate in the world championship.
The parent adds the tournament represents a landmark moment not only for Fiji but for the Pacific region, as it is expected to be the first time a Pacific Island nation has qualified for the IHF Women's Youth World Championship.
Meanwhile, we have sent questions to the Women's U18 Handball Fiji Team coach Lusi Rokoura, and the Fiji Sports Commission.
They are yet to respond.
