The Fiji men’s national netball team is preparing for its inaugural international tournament. Head coach Jioeli Makare has confirmed that the invitation came from Singapore. The announcement of the 15-member squad is expected this week, following trials held last Saturday at the Fiji National University gymnasium in Nasinu.
The team has been training for six weeks leading up to this event. Makare noted, “This is the first time that the men’s team will be traveling overseas for an international tournament.” Six nations have confirmed participation, including Fiji, New Zealand, Australia, England, Hong Kong, and the host country, Singapore.
He expressed optimism that this tournament would pave the way for future international competitions for the Fiji men’s team. Earlier trials held in March this year did not include players based overseas, as only local athletes participated. Makare mentioned that the trial dates are available on the Netball Fiji page and has submitted the final squad to the executive committee for approval. He anticipates receiving confirmation to inform the players later this week.
Additionally, Makare is hopeful about netball becoming an Olympic sport, as World Netball aims to collaborate with Netball Australia to advocate for netball’s inclusion in the Brisbane 2032 Olympic Games.
In other news, the Suva Swifts triumphed in the Finance Hub Super League by 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 was recognized as 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 their sponsors, Netball IGA. She stated, “We are looking forward to next year because we want to take a team across Australia, especially our development players.” Korovulavula praised the performance of the younger athletes, noting how well they integrated with the senior players who were advised to support their younger teammates on the court.
The final results of the league are as follows:
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.