Mere Rodan, a 57-year-old Fijian para table tennis player, is preparing to represent Fiji at the 2025 Pacific Mini Games in Palau. Despite starting her preparations late, she aims to inspire others living with disabilities. Rodan’s journey into para sports began in 2014, and she has achieved significant milestones since then, including competing in the 2016 Paralympics.
Mere Rodan, a 57-year-old Paralympian para table tennis player, is gearing up to represent Fiji in the upcoming 2025 Pacific Mini Games in Palau. Despite limited preparation time with just 19 days before the event, Rodan is focused on making her country proud again. After suffering paralysis from the waist down in 2006 due to sepsis, she is determined to give her best performance.
“We’ve just started our physio sessions. I wish we started earlier, like the other teams, but we’re making the most of the time we have,” Rodan commented in an interview. This reflects her resilient attitude as she prepares for competition.
Rodan’s venture into para sports began in 2014 when she joined the “Smash Down Barriers” program, which introduced her to table tennis. Remarkably, within six months, she had already made her competitive debut at the 2015 Oceania Championships, defeating the region’s top-ranked Australian player. Her quick ascent led to a historic qualification for the 2016 Paralympic Games in Rio de Janeiro, marking her as one of Fiji’s notable para-athletes.
Coming from Sinuvaca Village on Koro Island, Rodan shared her perspective on how sports have markedly changed her life after enduring years of struggles. “Before table tennis, I was just lying around. People tend to forget those with disabilities,” Rodan said. “But once I found this sport, I had something to wake up for again. I said to myself on the first night of training, ‘I want to be a champion.’ I guess that has happened.”
Rodan’s family has been a crucial source of support throughout her journey, which she acknowledges with heartfelt appreciation. As she prepares for what may be her last big regional competition, she expresses hope that her story will motivate others with disabilities.
“If you enjoy something and commit to it, anything is possible,” she emphasized, showcasing her belief in the power of determination. The Pacific Mini Games are set to take place from June 29 to July 9, with Team Fiji departing for the event on June 27. An iTatau ceremony is scheduled for Wednesday, marking an important cultural send-off for the athletes.
In summary, Mere Rodan stands as a beacon of resilience and inspiration as she gets ready for the Pacific Mini Games. Despite the challenges of preparation and her personal health journey, she embodies the spirit of determination and hope. With a supportive family backing her and a commitment to showcasing her skills, Rodan not only aims for victory but also seeks to inspire others with disabilities. The upcoming games will not only serve as a platform for her athletic prowess but also highlight the potential of those facing similar challenges.
Original Source: www.fijitimes.com.fj
