Fiji’s rising women’s rugby league stars are taking their biggest step yet as five young players prepare to test their skills on an international stage in Australia.
The players from the Fiji Bulikula Residents squad have been named to represent Fiji in the Pacific Combine Team for the Harvey Norman NRL Rising Talent Invitational, set for July 31 to August 3 at Wests Mayfield, Newcastle.
This tournament will bring together the best emerging female talent from across the Pacific, giving them the chance to impress NRLW scouts and build confidence.
Fiji Bulikula head coach Joe Dakuitoga said the trials held last Wednesday were part of their grassroots programme and preparation for the Women’s Rugby League World Cup qualifiers.
“These matches will help us select the girls we will prepare for the World Cup qualifiers,” Dakuitoga said.
He said the rise rookie match is also a way for young players to get noticed and possibly earn professional opportunities.
The five selected players are Asena Diranuve, Vasemaca Duva, Salacieli Sautoba, Naomi Tegu and Elenoa Patricia.
Most of Rise rookie girls’ squad are between 15-18 years old and have been playing in the FNRLW premiership competition that is held every Saturday.
An example is Vasiti Rekisa, a 14-year-old Mahatma Ghandi Memorial school student who is already competing in club rugby league.
Dakuitoga said the programme aims to prepare girls early so that when they turn 18, they are ready for top-level competition.
Four staff members will accompany the team: Sevanaia Koroi as head coach, Solomoni Ratu as assistant coach, Selo Sanawa as strength and conditioning coach and Salote Sukakinamena as tour coordinator.
“This competition is a pathway created by NRLW clubs for the Pacific. Every year they will identify girls to be scouted,” Dakuitoga said.
He added that local coaches are also given chances to lead and grow.
