As schools prepare for the 2026 Coca-Cola Games starting next week, Mahatma Gandhi Memorial High School is now focusing on fine-tuning their performances, with training having started months earlier.
While speaking to fijivillage Sports, MGM Athletics coach Waliki Tiko Satakala stresses that preparations have progressed well, with athletes sharpening their skills after months of build-up.
He says drawing experience from the past two years, there is less pressure on the team, as confidence in their ability to defend the title continues to grow.
Satakala shares that injuries have reduced this season, noting that this is the least the team has relied on physiotherapy in three years adding this to improved load management and how well athletes have responded to training.
The coach stresses that balancing academics and sport remains a priority, with teachers working closely with student-athletes to maintain strong academic performance while meeting training demands.
Insert:MGM coach on rival teams 22nd April
He says the team is not overly focused on rivalry, adding that sport should come first, while wishing all competing schools the best in their preparations.
The coach also highlighted the importance of discipline off the track, including proper sleep, hydration, and nutrition, stressing that athletes must take responsibility for their overall well-being.
Meanwhile, MGM Principal Rageshwar Prasad says the focus is on improving their standing while proving that a school can excel in both academics and sport, despite strong competition from established boys’ schools.
He shares that the school will be represented by 38 girls and 25 boys at the Coke Games.
He also reveals that adjustments were made to this year’s camp schedule after some athletes experienced homesickness last year, which affected sleep and contributed to injuries. Prasad says this year, the camp started later to ensure athletes remain mentally and physically ready for competition.
He acknowledges the support of the Gujarati Association Society, parents and the wider school community, and is calling on old scholars to turn out in numbers to support the team.
With final preparations underway, MGM is now focused on mental readiness as they aim to defend their title and make their supporters proud.
The Coca Cola Games will be held from next Thursday to Saturday at the HFC Bank Stadium.
