FIJI will make sporting history later this month when its under-18 women’s handball team becomes the first Pacific Island nation to compete at the International Handball Federation (IHF) Women’s Youth World Championship in Romania.
The championship, scheduled from July 29 – August 9, marks a major milestone for Handball Fiji and the development of the sport across Oceania, with the young squad preparing to test itself against some of the world’s strongest handball nations.
Handball Fiji has named a 12-member squad following months of intensive training, with the final team selected from an initial 22-player national training group.
Fiji faces a daunting challenge in its maiden World Championship appearances after being drawn in Group A alongside international heavyweights France, Croatia, and Egypt. Despite the difficult draw, Head of Delegation Lusiana Rokoura believes qualification alone is a landmark achievement for the players, Fiji, and the wider Pacific region.
“This is much bigger than handball,” Rokoura said.
“These young women are making history for Fiji, for Oceania, and for every young girl who dreams of representing her country. They have earned their place through hard work, determination, and resilience.”
Rokoura said the tournament will provide the players with invaluable international exposure while showcasing the growth of handball in Fiji.
“They have shown they belong on the world stage and will proudly wear the Fiji flag against some of the world’s strongest handball nations.”
As preparations continue, the federation is now working to ensure the team has the resources needed to compete at its best in Romania.
Handball Fiji is appealing for sponsorship to help cover international travel, accommodation, equipment and medical support..
