Naomi Tegu will carry more than the hopes of her family when she takes the field for the Fiji Bulikula at the Rugby League World Cup in Australia on October 18.
The 19-year-old USP Raiders player will be the lone Fiji-based player in the national squad, giving her a unique opportunity to showcase the talent and potential of local rugby league players on the world stage.
Bulikula head coach Jone Wesele believes Tegu’s presence in the squad carries a significant responsibility as she prepares for the biggest challenge of her career.
“Naomi Tegu now carries a huge responsibility,” Wesele said during the team’s naming last week.
“She will now show the world what our local players are capable of and can do on the international stage.”
Tegu was a standout performer in this year’s Fiji National Rugby League Women’s Premiership and understands the significance of representing not only her country but also the local players who aspire to follow in her footsteps.
The challenge is one the Kadavu native has welcomed, drawing strength from a faith she believes has carried her this far in her rugby league journey.
“I thank God for the talent and the opportunity that He has given me,” Tegu said.
“I would have never made it this far without Him and I will let Him guide me in the rest of my rugby league career.”
For Tegu, the World Cup is more than an opportunity to test herself against international opposition. It is a chance to demonstrate that players developed through Fiji’s domestic competition can compete on the world stage.
As the Bulikula prepare for their opening match on October 18, Tegu will look to make her opportunity count and inspire the next generation of local women rugby league players.
