MCDONALD’S Fiji Drua Women No.8 Sulita Waisega will carry more than just her team’s hopes when she runs onto Churchill Park for Saturday’s Super Rugby Women semi-final against the Queensland Reds.
The powerful back-rower revealed she is preparing for the biggest match of the season while mourning the loss of her grandfather, who passed away last Saturday.
Despite the heartbreak, Waisega says the tragedy has given her another reason to fight.
“Preparation has been going well with the girls, but personally it’s been a hard week for me. I lost my grandfather on Saturday morning, so it’s been a mix of emotions, but it also gives me extra strength, knowing that I’m going to play for my grandpa and hopefully help the team get the semi-final win,” she said.
The home semi-final will be Waisega’s second game at Churchill Park, and she says the occasion is made even more special by the opportunity to play in front of family, friends and passionate Drua supporters.
“It’s always good to be one step closer to the grand final. We’ve worked very hard to get to this point, so we’ll be doing everything we can on Saturday to get that win,” she said.
“It’s special being back at home because we get to have our families with us. It’s nice to give something back to them by bringing a home semi-final to Lautoka.”
Although her parents are overseas, Waisega says she has never lacked support.
“Mum and Dad are far from home, but thankfully I have my family here in Fiji. They’ve always supported me through everything, and I think there’ll be even more family coming this weekend.”
Waisega’s rugby journey has not been without setbacks, having battled injuries and challenges along the way, but she credits her faith, family and love for the game for keeping her motivated.
The Drua will take on the Reds tomorrow at 1pm.
