Courtney Afeaki, the daughter of Fiji under-20 head coach Senirusi Seruvakula, is set to make her international rugby debut for Tonga against Fijiana 15s at the Oceania Rugby Women’s XV Championship on Friday. Afeaki, 22, who has previously visited Fiji, regards this match as particularly special since she will be starting her international career in the country she considers home, even while wearing the colors of Tonga.
With aspirations of scoring in her debut, Afeaki has expressed her excitement and commitment to delivering a strong performance, inspired by the support of her father, who has encouraged her to give her all on the field. She began playing rugby during her high school years, showing potential that soon caught the attention of coaches.
The much-anticipated match will take place at Lawaqa Park in Sigatoka, with Afeaki looking forward to seeing both her Fijian relatives and Tonga supporters in the stands. This highlights the growing engagement and support for rugby in the region.
This event ties closely with the upcoming matches featuring both teams in the Oceania Rugby Women’s Championship. The Fijiana XV, coached by Ioan Cunningham, has been preparing diligently, focusing on incorporating new talents as they aim for success in the tournament with a mixture of experience and youthful energy. The upcoming encounters promise excitement for fans and are a step forward in promoting women’s rugby in Fiji and Tonga, fostering growth and inspiring future athletes in the sport.
As the match day approaches, the excitement surrounding Afeaki’s debut and the overall competitive spirit of the tournament represent a hopeful outlook for rugby in the Pacific region. The games not only celebrate the talent of individual players but also the development of women’s rugby as a whole, paving the way for future generations to follow their dreams.
Leave a comment