FOR St. Vincent College Under-16 Raluve captain Vasemaca Tinai Naiqaci, rugby has become more than just a passion, it has become a platform to inspire young girls to believe they too can make their mark in the sport.
Hailing from Nalidi Village in Nakorotubu, Ra, with maternal links to Buca Bay Village in Cakaudrove, Vanua Levu, Naiqaci has embraced the responsibility of leading her teammates while becoming an example for aspiring female rugby players.
The flanker, who wears the number six jersey, has shown strong leadership throughout the Weet-Bix Raluve competition, guiding St Vincent College to victory over Lelean Memorial School last Saturday to secure a place in the finals.
Her side will now face Adi Cakobau School this weekend, but for Naiqaci, the journey is more than just results.
It is about proving rugby is a sport where young girls can belong, compete and dream big.
“Rugby is not only for boys, but also for girls too,” Naiqaci said.
Her own path has been shaped by determination and perseverance. While balancing school and the demands of the sport, Naiqaci has also faced the challenge of living with a rheumatic heart disorder.
Rather than allowing the condition to limit her ambitions, she has continued to pursue the sport she loves, drawing strength from her family, teammates and her own belief.
Her passion for rugby was encouraged by her two older brothers, who introduced her to the game and follow her dreams.
“My inspiration is from my two big brothers, Lino and Josoro. They were my inspiration,” Naiqaci said.
“They played rugby and they always motivate me to play rugby more. They told me rugby is not only for boys, but also for girls too.”
Her mother and grandmother have also remained important figures in her journey, providing the support and encouragement that continues to push her forward.
“My mum really motivates me the most. She’s the only one who supports me at home,” she said.
Adding to her motivation is Fiji rugby sevens legend Jerry Tuwai, who comes from Buca Bay Village in Cakaudrove, the same village her maternal family originates from. The connection has further inspired Naiqaci to dream of one day following in his footsteps and representing Fiji on the international stage.
For the young captain, rugby is not just about her own achievements. She wants her journey to motivate other girls to follow their dreams, take up the sport and believe they also have a place in rugby.
As she leads St Vincent College into the finals, Naiqaci hopes her journey can encourage more young girls to take up rugby, have confidence in their abilities and on the field.
Her story is a reminder that true leadership is not only about guiding a team, it is about inspiring the generation that comes next.
