THE Fiji Pearls 22-member squad for engagements this year was named yesterday.
The 22-member squad sees a number of national representatives in previous outings and young players who featured for Fiji with the Baby Pearls under-21 side in the Netball World Youth Cup in Gibraltar last year.
Netball Fiji transition committee chair Vasiti Vugakoto and Fiji Pearls head coach Michelle Parsons announced the 22-member squad
It’s the latest step towards Netball Fiji’s plans to elevate the national squad back to top form, after preparations for the trials began in April this year.
There were 94 players present for that particular trial.
Selectors said the chosen group will remain together for the remainder of the season as preparations begin for the Spirit Series in Sydney, Australia next month.
The selection panel noted that any athletes identified during an upcoming international player’s trial next month would be added to the squad rather than replacing current members.
Preparations are expected to intensify in the coming weeks, with players set to undertake a demanding training program designed to improve fitness, skills and mental resilience.
Head coach Parsons believes the schedule will help build a strong team culture while preparing athletes to perform under pressure at a higher level of competition.
Training for the team is expected to start today.
Fiji Pearls squad:
Shooters – Cilia Lewatu, Esther Dawai, Leehava Saverio, Lydia Panapasa, Matilla Vocea, Nina Nakula, Robyn Navoka. Midcourt– Anatolia Nuku, Ateca Buli, Elenoa Rasaubale, Elina Drikibau, Jimaima Kete, Susana Rasaubale, Tuipulotu Vulimailaucala, Vutaeli Tokaduadua.
Defenders – Alisi Naqiri, Elenoa Gukirewa, Ema Mualuvu, Eseta Waqaira, Kalesi Tawake, Nanise Waqaira, Ravaela Koroiravudi.
