IN spite of drawbacks, juggling multiple roles can enhance performance.
That was true for 24-year-old medical student Losalini Dansey, who scooped a gold medal at the 2023 Pacific Games as a member of the Fiji women’s hockey team.
At the heart of her road to gold in Solomon Islands was her commitment and dedication to her studies, her family and her great love of hockey. Losalini is the eldest of three siblings and hails from Nasilai in Rewa.
She shares maternal links to Levuka in the district of Yale, Kadavu. She was born on Kadavu and lived on the island for 10 years while her mum worked as a nurse there.
She attended Saint John Bosco Primary in Year 5 and Christian Mission Fellowship Primary School from years six to eight.
She graduated as the dux and went on to attend Adi Cakobau School where she was also awarded the dux prize both in years 12 and 13.
Losalini’s love for hockey began in high school where she represented ACS throughout her high school years.
She later joined the Venture’s Hockey Club women’s team at the age of 18 in the hope of enhancing her sporting career.
Juggling the rigorous demands of medical school with intensive training in competitive sports was not easy but she managed to find the perfect balance between the two.
“I was excited since this was going to be my first time, but I was also scared,” she said.
Her jubilant parents Veniana and George Dansey were overwhelmed with emotion as she became the very first SPG gold medalist in her family. “Her achievements are much deserved,” Mrs Dansey said.
“She was committed and dedicated and sacrificed so much. Fifteen months of training as well as school, study and exams but she was able to do it all. I’m very proud of her.”
However, the striking gold had its share of setbacks. With the date of both examinations and competition nearing, Losalini faced time constraints, body fatigue and occasional pessimistic thoughts.
She would spend her time in the day attending classes, making rounds in hospital, intensive training at noon and pulling late night study sessions.
“I had to manage my time nicely,” she said.
“At night I would try to study to make up for the hours I had spent training. There were times when I was just too tired to continue training, but it all worked out in the end. Losalini enters her last year as a medical student in 2024 before she graduates.
Her story is a reminder that anything is possible. It inspires youths and those who are interested in the medical profession and competing in competitive sports.
With a gold medal draped around her neck, Losalini has created a story that redefines success.
“Always remain positive and never give up, believe in yourself and be willing to make the sacrifices when the time comes,” she said.
She remains committed to both medicine and sports, and with the brand of determination, perseverance and endurance she has, Losalini sure can attain the best of both worlds.
