With players returning from New Zealand and Australia, the Fiji national under-21 netball team, Baby Pearls have now assembled their full extended squad in Suva, set to face a tough test against two visiting Australian under-21 teams in a key World Cup warm-up.
The invitational series will run from July 7-11 at the Vodafone Arena in Laucala Bay, Suva.
It will feature the Blaze Netball under-21 side and the New South Wales Fijian U21 team competing against Fiji’s squad.
Head coach Simone Nalatu said this week’s regroup is crucial for the team to sharpen skills, test combinations and build confidence ahead of the Netball World Youth Cup in Gibraltar this September.
“This diverse squad consists of both local and overseas-based athletes who have been actively participating in various leagues and are dedicated to representing Fiji,” Nalatu said.
Since regrouping on Tuesday, the team has been training hard with a busy schedule.
Sessions focus on fitness, unit work for different positions and team bonding to build trust on and off the court.
The program also includes specialist sessions for shooters, midcourt and defenders, plus activities designed to help players connect and support each other.
Team manager Lusiana Rakavono said the players are showing commitment despite the pressure of juggling netball with studies and work.
“I always tell them to be consistent and focused on their goals,” Rakavono said.
“Their sacrifices: juggling school, university and work will pay off if they keep pushing and never give up.”
The 27-member extended squad will be split into two teams, Kacau and Kikau, for the matches.
