FIJIAN under-19 mid court player Aliti Toribau aims to make her family proud when she plays in the International Secondary School Netball Challenge next week.
After seven years, her dream of one day to representing the country, has finally come true for this young Tailevu lass.
Being part of the Fiji 19 is a big responsibility.
Aliti hails from Viwa, Bau, Tailevu spoke of how her family had been the backbone of her achievement ever since she joined the national squad.
“When I was a young I always wanted to be a netball player and I told my dad about my new found passion,” Aliti said.
“So I started when I was in Year Five and never looked back or regretted the decision I’ve made.
“I told my parents back then that I will one day play for my country and now seven years later my dreams finally came true.
“I was a member of the Suva team all throughout the years and in Year Eight we went for a tour to New Zealand for the Fiji/Auckland tournament and I captained the under-13 team which we won.
“Hard work, dedication, patience, passion, faith and support were the main ingredients in achieving my goal,” Toribau said.
She also dedicated it to her late grandmothers from both her parents’ side that passed away last year.
“They played a big role helping my parents bring up six children and I was the middle child.
“Moving from Suva Methodist Primary School to Dudley Intermediate made a huge impact in my netball career.
“Last year while siting for my Fiji Junior Examination I had to balance study and training and I am grateful to my parents for helping me get through because they know my love for netball without their support I wouldn’t be where I am now,” she said.
For the Dudley High School student nothing is impossible if the heart is willing.
“No matter if you’re are student remember study and train hard to prove that you can do anything. Pray hard and do your part and let God do the rest,” she said.
Player Profile
Name: Aliti Tinai Toribau
Age: 16
Village: Viwa, Bau Tailevu
School: Dudley High School
Favourite netball player: Gabi Simpson
Favourite team: Australian Diamonds.
Favourite Bible verse: Philippines 4: 13
Favourite Food: Chicken Tomato sauce
Favourite drink: Fanta
What motivates you: Family
