The Fiji men’s national netball team is preparing for their debut in an international tournament. Head coach Jioeli Makare announced that the team received an invitation from Singapore netball. The 15-member squad is expected to be revealed this week following last Saturday’s trials held at the Fiji National University gymnasium in Nasinu.
The team has been training for six weeks leading up to this event. Makare expressed excitement as this marks the first time the men’s team will compete abroad, with six countries, including Fiji, confirmed to participate: New Zealand, Australia, England, Hong Kong, and Singapore.
He is optimistic that this tournament will lead to more international competitions for the Fiji men’s team. Earlier this year, the trials were conducted in March, but the majority of players were locals, with no overseas-based members. The final roster will be submitted to the executive committee for approval, with announcements expected later this week.
Makare also expressed hope that netball will be recognized as an Olympic sport, particularly with World Netball planning to collaborate with Netball Australia to advocate for its inclusion in the Brisbane 2032 Olympic Games.
In other news, Suva Swifts triumphed in the Finance Hub Super League, decisively defeating Lautoka with a score of 69-35 last Saturday. The team featured members from the Pearls extended squad, including standout shooter Unaisi Rauluni, who earned the title of most valuable player.
Other notable players included Avelina Navue, Maliana Rusivakula, and Reama Verekauta. Head coach Filo Korovulavula dedicated the victory to the Suva Netball Association committee and sponsors, Netball IGA. She expressed optimism for next year, as they aim to send a team to Australia, especially focusing on development players.
Korovulavula was pleased with the team’s performance, particularly with how well the younger players integrated into the squad, emphasizing the importance of senior players supporting their younger counterparts on the court.
Final Results:
Suva Swifts 69 – 35 Lautoka Stars
Fifth-place playoff: Nadroga Stallions 28 – 61 Baby Pearls Team Kikau
Seventh-place playoff: Nadi 20 – 30 Tailevu Doves.