Eleina McDonald, the operations and events manager for Fijian Drua, shared her inspiring journey and the challenges she encountered as the first woman to serve as team manager for the Flying Fijians during a recent event celebrating International Women’s Day in Lautoka. McDonald spoke candidly about her experiences in a male-dominated arena like rugby and the daily hurdles of establishing herself in a role that ideally focuses on performance rather than gender.
“Much of the attention is directed at being the first woman in this field. However, many overlook the smaller, persistent challenges that come with proving yourself every day,” she remarked. McDonald emphasized the critical need for support in her role, which she views as a significant learning opportunity.
Highlighting the importance of self-awareness and vulnerability in leadership, she encouraged women to understand when to show their human side. “Rugby may often be labeled a boy’s club, but that doesn’t mean women cannot excel in these spaces,” McDonald noted, inspiring others to believe in their abilities and potential.
This call for women’s empowerment in sports reflects a wider movement echoed by other female athletes in Fiji. Vika Nakacia, newly part of the Fiji Airways Fijiana 7s squad, shared her experiences of overcoming financial struggles and skepticism to embrace her sporting journey. Similarly, Adi Mereoni Vakacerevuna Uluiviti’s recent appointment as the manager of Fiji’s senior women’s cricket team highlights significant steps toward empowering women within the sporting world and showcases increasing recognition of their capabilities in competitive settings.
The stories of McDonald, Nakacia, and Uluiviti serve as powerful reminders to aspiring female athletes in Fiji that resilience and support can help them break barriers and fulfill their dreams. As these trailblazing women continue to make strides in sports, their experiences contribute to a positive shift in perceptions and support for women’s athletics in the region. They not only represent personal accomplishments but also embody a broader movement seeking gender equality in sports.
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