DOMITILA Naita is savouring her debut with the defending women’s champions, Freshet Navy.
For the 20-year-old Bua native, it is a special moment to make her debut at the 50th edition of the Fiji Bitter Marist Sevens.
Since taking up the sport at Adi Cakobau School as part of their U18 team, Naita has not looked back.
She was recruited to the Navy civilian side three years ago and, through hard work and determination, has earned her place in the senior Navy team.
Naita admits that stepping up to the senior side has been challenging, but it is a challenge she is eager to embrace.
“It’s been hard because they won last year, so it’s a big challenge to us to defend the title again this year,” she said.
Since making her debut, Naita believes she is one step closer to her ultimate goal of donning the white jumper.
“I’m trying to make it to the national team but for now I’ll take one step at a time, but first I’ll have to give it my all and help my team defend our title.”
Meanwhile, Navy captain and former national representative Lavenia Tinai is enjoying giving back to the sport that has given so much to her over the past 16 years.
She is eager to help her younger teammates achieve their rugby dreams.
“Rugby is a male-dominated sport in the country but women’s rugby has really progressed over the years and I’m confident we will see more new talents in the competition,” she said.
