FORMER Fijiana 7s player Ivamere Nabura is inching closer to fulfilling her dream of making the Fijian Drua women’s team for next season’s Super W.
Nabura has been eyeing the Drua women’s jersey since its inception three years ago and remained committed to turning that desire into a reality.
The Nakorosule in Naitasiri native who had an exceptional season with Suva Women’s rugby in retaining the Marama Championship title has taken a vital step towards this goal.
She was named in the Vodafone Fijiana XV 30-member squad for the Tests against Scotland and the Netherlands this month.
Nabura is one of four uncapped players in the squad.
“I am part of the women’s high-performance unit, training and working hard to fulfil this dream,” she said in an interview with this newspaper.
“I’ve already donned the Fijiana 7s jersey and my plan for the season to come is to be part of the Fijian Drua women’s team for the upcoming Super W season. When they announce the names, I want to be part of it.”
The 23-year-old who was recognised as Suva women’s rugby best backline player of the year admitted that it would take more than just sheer talent to make the Drua.
“A lot of young girls are chasing a spot in the Drua, I think for me it comes down to choosing the right people to hang out with, those who have my best interest at heart and supports my goal.
“Secondly, to come out of my comfort zone, train hard, do the extras so when trials come, I will standout from the group,” she added.
One could say that rugby runs in her veins as her father and older brothers also played the sport.
Her brothers are former Silktails and Fiji Warriors player Meli Nabura and former Highlanders’ speedster Tevita Nabura.
While they were supportive of her choice to play rugby, her mum, Marica Nai, did not fully support the idea.
“My parents have been the backbone of my rugby journey. A lot has been spoken against me and women’s rugby in general, but my parents have been there in every step of the way, reminding me to ignore the haters and follow my dreams.
Nabura who shares maternal links to Nadroga is grateful for the opportunity to represent Fiji once again in the international arena.
