Twenty-year-old Mereoni Nakesa will turn a childhood dream into reality, if she runs on to the field with the Vodafone Fijiana 15s side against the Wallaroos in their test match tomorrow.
The Vunamoli, Nadi lass said she had always dreamt of following her father’s footsteps, Ulaiasi Lawavou, a former national 7s rep, in representing the country.
“Ever since I was a child, just watching my father play for the country sparked an interest in me to do the same. And also, I’ve always longed to ride an airplane one day,” she said.
However, Nakesa only started playing rugby two years ago, before being drafted into the Rooster Chicken Fijiana side early this year.
“I first started playing for Nadi in 2022 before I underwent the trials for the Fijiana Drua. I managed to make the team, and here I am today about to play my first official match for the Fijiana 15s side.”
Nakesa plays at the number eight position and is one of the five uncapped players in the team.
“I am very excited to run out against the Wallaroos because I know I have made my family proud in reaching where I am today.”
Nakesa also shared that there had been a lot of criticism and challenges thrown at her along the way.
“People talk and say things but I never let these things get to my head. Instead I use them as motivation to work harder and prove people wrong, and now I’ve made it.”
When she runs out onto the field against the Wallaroos this Saturday in Australia, she will be running out for her family, who she says are her biggest supporters.
“They have been there for me since day one, and when I run out for the Fijiana this weekend, they will be at the back of my mind.”
