Hockey fans across Fiji are set for an exciting weekend as the State of Origin Hockey Tournament takes centre stage on 10 and 11 January 2026 at Nadovu Park, marking the return of one of the country’s most anticipated grassroots hockey events.

The tournament, hosted and sponsored by the Lautoka Hockey Association (LHA), is being delivered in partnership with key sponsors including Engineering Minds Ltd, Strike Fumigation and Pest Control Ltd, Swift Logistics Ltd, Raiwaqa Buses Ltd, and the Australia & New Zealand Former Lautoka Hockey Players.

LHA has expressed its sincere appreciation to its sponsors for their continued support, noting that their contributions are critical to progressing and developing hockey at the district and community level.

Rescheduled for Player Safety

The tournament was originally scheduled for late December but was postponed due to severe weather and unsafe ground conditions. LHA confirmed the decision was made in the interest of player, official, and spectator safety, with the event rescheduled to coincide with the January school holidays.

Tournament Format and Teams

The 2026 State of Origin Tournament will feature three women’s teams and eight men’s teams, promising a weekend of competitive and fast-paced hockey.

In the women’s competition, Lautoka, Suva, and Levuka will compete in a single pool. Nadi Women and Lami Men were initially entered but have withdrawn following the change of tournament dates and unvailability of key players.

The men’s competition is divided into two pools:

Pool A

• Lautoka Seniors
• Nadi
• Nausori
• Lautoka Under 21

Pool B

• Ba
• Lautoka Maroons
• Navua-Suva
• Levuka

Levuka’s Long-Awaited Return

One of the most compelling storylines of the tournament is the return of Levuka, who have travelled a considerable distance to participate after more than a decade away from competitive hockey. Once regarded as a powerhouse in Fiji hockey at district and secondary school level, Levuka has experienced a gradual decline in participation over recent years.

Despite this, the district boasts a proud legacy of producing district and national representatives, and their return is being welcomed as a positive step toward reviving hockey in smaller centres.

Rivalries and Title Favourites

Traditional rivals Lautoka and Suva are expected to headline the competition once again. Suva will field a combined Navua-Suva side, adding further intensity to a rivalry that has defined the State of Origin competition over the past decade.

As hosts, Lautoka have been tagged as early favourites, boasting a strong lineup that includes current and former Fiji representatives. Leading the charge for Lautoka are former national players Ernest Coffin, Lesco Veidreyaki, and Hamlet Wedlock, supported by experienced campaigners, brothers, Esaroma and Norman Smith.

However, the Navua-Suva combination is expected to be formidable, with Ethan Wise spearheading their campaign. Nausori, led by Fiji representative Leevan Dutta, will also be keen to make a strong statement, while Ba District are widely regarded as the tournament’s dark horses, possessing the talent and depth to upset any side.

More Than Just Hockey

In addition to on-field competition, the tournament will feature a range of prizes, including cash awards and sponsored gifts for winners and participants, with criteria set by LHA to recognise performance, discipline, and sportsmanship.

Behind the scenes, the successful staging of the tournament has been driven by the tireless efforts of the LHA Executive, led by President Martin Coffin, Treasurer Helen McLaren, Secretary Grace Smith, and Vice President Hamlet Wedlock. Their work has involved extensive coordination across finance, logistics, sponsorship, and operations.

The Executive has been strongly supported by committee members Henschell Coffin, Fergus Underwood, Daisy Veidreyaki, and Esaroma Smith, reflecting a collective commitment to sustaining and growing the sport.

A Milestone Year for Lautoka Hockey

Adding to the momentum, LHA recently launched its official website, www.lautokahockey.com, late last year, a significant milestone for a minor sport organisation and a key step in improving visibility, communication, and engagement with the wider hockey community.

As teams take to the field this weekend, the State of Origin Hockey Tournament promises not only thrilling competition, but a celebration of resilience, rivalry, and the enduring passion for hockey across Fiji.