The Fiji men’s national netball team is preparing for its inaugural international tournament. Head coach Jioeli Makare has confirmed that the team received an invitation from Singapore netball. The announcement of the 15-member squad is anticipated this week, following trials held last Saturday at the Fiji National University gymnasium in Nasinu.
The extended team has been training for the past six weeks. Makare emphasized the significance of this event, stating, “This is the first time that the men’s team will be traveling overseas for an international tournament.” Six countries have committed to participating, including Fiji, New Zealand, Australia, England, Hong Kong, and Singapore.
Makare expresses hope that this tournament will mark the beginning of many international competitions for the Fiji men’s team. He noted that earlier trials in March included only local players, as there were no overseas-based athletes available. The trial dates have been shared on the Netball Fiji page.
He has submitted the final roster of 15 players to the executive committee for approval and expects to notify the team by the end of this week. Additionally, Makare is optimistic about netball potentially becoming an Olympic sport, as World Netball aims to collaborate with Netball Australia to advocate for its inclusion in the Brisbane 2032 Olympic Games.
In related news, the Suva Swifts captured the Finance Hub Super League title by defeating Lautoka, 69-35, last Saturday. The team featured members of the Pearls extended squad, including standout shooter Unaisi Rauluni, who was named the Most Valuable Player (MVP). 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, expressing excitement for future plans: “We are looking forward to next year because we want to take a team across Australia, especially our development players.” She praised the performance of the younger players who integrated well with the seasoned athletes on the court.
Match results from the tournament include:
Final: 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.