SIX years away from the national stage has only strengthened Vatukoula Netball’s desire to return and make its presence felt at the Crest Netball Fiji Championship.
The Vatukoula side was back in the competition, fielding both a men’s and women’s team in the open category during the two-day championship at the Lautoka Multi-Purpose Court last weekend.
Team manager Camari Mara said the decision to return was driven by the team’s desire to once again be part of the national competition.
“We have not been in the competition for so long, and we are back after 6 years, this year we thought of joining the competition this year,” Mara said.
The return has not come without its challenges, with the team having to overcome a difficult journey to Lautoka.
Mara said the commitment and teamwork shown by the players had been crucial in making their return possible.
“We came in with two teams one men’s and one women’s teams participating in the open category. It was a tough journey for us trying to come here but I’m thankful of the hard work and team work been put in by our players enable us to come here,” he added.
Vatukoula’s return adds another layer to this year’s championship, with the team eager to use the opportunity to reconnect with the national competition and measure itself against other participating teams.
The players made a positive start to their campaign and are determined to build on it.
“It was a good start for us and we look forward to a good game,” Mara said.
After six years away, the Vatukoula team is not simply back to make up the numbers.
Their return represents a renewed commitment to netball and a chance for a new group of players to put Vatukoula back on the national netball map.
