THE Crest Fiji Pearls will “bleed blue” when they take the court against the Cook Islands today in their opening match for the Netball World Cup 2027 Sydney Qualifier – Oceania.
Fiji Pearls head coach Michelle Parsons told this newspaper that the team was ready to embrace the pressure of the qualifiers despite having only trained together around three times as a complete unit.
“My expectations is that they’ll go out there and they’ll literally bleed blue,” Parsons said.
The match will be the first test for the Pearls as they begin their campaign to secure a place at the 2027 Netball World Cup in Sydney, Australia.
Parsons said the limited time together meant the team would continue to develop its combinations as the tournament progressed.
“But we will get better and get better connected.”
She expects the pressure of international competition to bring out the best in the players, while also giving less experienced members valuable exposure.
The Pearls have a mix of experienced players and new members, with Parsons saying that combination was important to the team’s development.
She said experienced players could provide guidance to newer members, while the younger players brought energy and enthusiasm into the group.
Parsons praised the attitude and character of the players, saying the squad had remained connected despite having only recently come together.
Beyond the court, the team has also received support from the Tongan community during its stay.
Parsons said families had delivered food parcels and drinks to the team’s accommodation, while others had invited players to lunch.
The team also received a warm welcome alongside other participating Pacific netball teams during a service at Sione Methodist Church on Sunday.
“The girls feel really welcomed and supported even though we’re a little bit away from our home.”
For the Pearls, their campaign begins against the Cook Islands today.
