IT will be a baptism of fire for young goal defender Episake Kahatoka as she prepares to make her debut for the Fiji Pearls in the upcoming Oceania Netball Tri Series.
The 18-year-old Navosa netter is one of the two new faces selected by head coach Kate Carpenter to feature against the Silver Ferns and Samoa in the series.
The other player is New Zealand-based Kelera Nawai who earlier played for Seniteteva side in the Lautoka netball association.
Kahatoka said the game against the Ferns would be a moment to cherish.
She said she never imagined to be playing against the best team in world but she was ready for the challenge.
“Firstly I am humbled to be selected in the national team and I am honoured to play alongside some of the country’s best netters,” said Kahatoka.
“Playing against the Silver Ferns is one of the biggest moments of my career and I am looking forward to the challenge.”
The former Nadroga Arya College student who also had short stint in New Zealand said she would give her best to the team.
She said the presence of senior players such as captain Mere Rabuka-Neiliko and Matila Waqanidrola has helped mould her career.
“I am learning as much as I can from senior players and also from our coach,” said Kahatoka.
“The game against the Ferns will be tough but I will give all my best and to help my team do well.”
The side had another gruelling session at the Fiji Sports Council National Fitness Centre last night as they prepare for their first game against the Ferns on January 19.
