Hard running, heavy gym work and tough scrimmage sessions are now part of the Fiji’s national under-21 netball team, the Baby Pearls’ daily routine as they prepare for next month’s Netball World Youth Cup in Gibraltar.
Team manager Lusiana Rakavono said the under-21 side trains five times a week with a mix of gym and court sessions, while extra focus has been placed on match play.
“We’re in our final stage of preparation right now, we’re having five training sessions per week with two gym sessions and three court sessions throughout the week,” Rakavono said.
She said the team has already tested themselves against other U21 sides and will continue their build-up with the Fiji Men’s netball team.
“What we want is to get our players as much intense game time as possible, we’re looking to have a few more scrimmage sessions with our Fiji Men’s team, something that will expose the girls to high intense game,” she said.
The Pearls will also welcome three overseas-based players on September 1, who have been following the training program from abroad.
“Right now, they’re continuing with our training program and constantly updating our S&C trainer with their progress. They’ll join us on 1st September, and we’ll continue our buildup,” Rakavono said.
She added the spirit in camp was positive and the players were enjoying the grind.
“The team spirit is at an all-time high as they continue to build their bond and gel in during court sessions.”
The Baby Pearls are scheduled to depart on September 12 and will open their World Cup campaign against Trinidad & Tobago on September 19.
For Fiji, the tournament will be a test of discipline, endurance and unity as the young side looks to stamp its mark on the world stage.