The Fijiana Women’s 7s team recently visited the Suva Women’s Corrections Centre, where they received an emotional reception, leading to tears from both the players and inmates.
The visit was part of the team’s community outreach program, aimed at uplifting the spirits of the inmates, and included a donation.
During the visit, the team was deeply touched when the inmates sang a song they had written for their favorite warden, COA Reijeli Daveua, who also serves as the captain of the Fijiana 7s team.
“I wanted the players to see firsthand why their captain is the way she is,” explained Fijiana 7s manager Luse Kotobalavu.
“To have that touch of humility yet show grit in the face of adversity, it’s because she works here at Corrections, and we thank the Commissioner for allowing us to visit before we fly off.”
“We also wanted to show them that they inspire even those who are in prison. Today they felt so much love, compassion, and support, and it was a good reminder of who they are all playing for,” added Kotobalavu.
Inmates and staff at the center are known for watching and cheering for the Fijiana team during their games, providing strong support for their captain.
“It was an experience these ladies will never forget. We hope our visit brought some joy to the women here, and we’ll keep them in our prayers,” Kotobalavu concluded.
Senior Superintendent Apakuki Qura thanked the team for choosing to visit and said, “Visits like this make those in our care feel happy and valued. It’s clear that the facility will be cheering loudly whenever the Fijiana play, especially during the Olympics.”