Young girls in Suva had the chance to train with the national under-21 netball team over the weekend and left feeling inspired.
The Baby Pearls, Fiji’s national U21 netball squad, visited the Rabi Buakonikai Youth Sports program in Toorak as part of their community outreach work.
The visit is part of their build-up to next month’s international tournament in Suva.
Team manager Lusiana Rakavono said the players didn’t just teach drills; they taught confidence, teamwork and leadership.
“The girls coached basic netball skills, answered questions and ran fun games. But more than that, they connected,” Rakavono said.
“It gave our players a chance to lead, and it showed the young girls what’s possible.”
She said the team believes strongly in giving back to the community and being role models for younger athletes.
“It inspires those who dream of playing for Fiji one day,” she said.
The Baby Pearls are preparing for a big challenge.
From July 7–11, they will face Blaze Netball U21 and New South Wales Fijian U21 in an invitational tournament at the Vodafone Arena in Suva.
The players are now in week six of training.
They are doing fitness work, team-building activities and even practice matches against men’s teams to prepare.
“Our goal is to test the girls against tough opponents and pick the best squad for the 2025 Netball World Youth Cup,” Rakavono said.
She said the team has been focused and determined.
“They know what’s expected and are working hard to reach it.”
She also encouraged the public to support the squad.
“Come to our games, cheer us on, share our journey and keep us in your prayers. Your support means everything to the girls.”
Meanwhile the Netball World Youth Cup will take place in September.
