Debutant Josivini Tuikilakila is filled with gratitude for the opportunity to represent the country as she joins the Vodafone Fijiana XV team in their upcoming match against Japan at the HFC Bank Stadium in Suva.
Originally from Vagadra, Nadroga, Tuikilakila’s journey into rugby began in 2022 when she moved to Suva for education, only to find herself drawn to the sport.
Her inspiration came from watching her older siblings, Aseri Vatuinaruku, a former Nadi Rugby player and Jone Naikabula, who currently plays in Japan and represented Japan in the last World Cup.
Their passion for rugby instilled a dream in Tuikilakila to one day follow in their footsteps.
Starting her rugby career at Seahawks Rugby Club, Tuikilakila faced challenges as she had to learn the game from scratch without prior experience.
“When I started playing rugby it was difficult, I had to start from the basics because I did not grow up learning it,” said Tuikilakila.
“I am thankful to coach Elenoa Kunatuba who took me back to the basics of rugby, and the laws.
“At first, I was just playing for the sake of it, but I was thankful to have a club like Seahawks that helped me learn all the basics.”
Tuikilakila also acknowledges the support she received from the Fiji Rugby High Performance Unit.
“I am thankful to be picked by Fiji Rugby High Performance Unit, that also helped me enhance my skills, and to also be a better player at the high-performance level.
“I did not expect to come play and train here, but I would like to thank coach Mosese Rauluni, hearing my name being called up to join the Vodafone Fijiana team, I just want to thank the lord for his provision and hearing my players every day.”
