Ka’iulani Senitoa Mary Scott sees her role as a member of the Fiji Kulas football team as a significant homage to her cultural heritage, reflecting both her excitement and nervousness about representing Fiji on the international stage.
Born to a Fijian mother from Totoya, Lau and an English father, the New Zealand-based athlete is cherishing her unique opportunity. “I’m here to represent my mother’s side of the family,” Scott expressed, highlighting her connection to her roots.
Scott’s journey with the Kulas started in 2023 when she was scouted from the Xavier College team while still in high school. Now, she aims to prove her worth on the pitch and set her sights on the Pacific Games, saying, “My aim is to represent Fiji at the Pacific Games and make my mother proud.” To achieve this, she is committed to participating in every tournament available.
Football runs in Scott’s family; her brother Matthew Scott is a goalkeeper, creating a playful sibling rivalry as she aims to outshine him. “I want to be better than my brother,” she remarked with a smile.
Though she resides in New Zealand, Fiji holds a special place in her heart. With most of her family located in Ba, she frequently visits to reconnect with her heritage. In appreciation of her family and friends who have supported her journey, she expressed a heartfelt “Thank you for always supporting me and my dreams.”
As the Fiji Kulas gear up for their inaugural training camp in February, where Scott is the only overseas player selected, this marks a crucial step for women’s football in Fiji. The team’s dedication to rigorous preparation reflects broader commitments to international competition, not just for current players but also for the inspiration of future generations of female athletes. The training camp aims to build team skills, encourage unity, and prepare for upcoming tournaments like the OFC Women’s Nations Cup and the FIFA Women’s World Cup 2027 Oceania Qualifiers.
In summary, Ka’iulani Scott exemplifies ambition and pride as she embarks on her football journey with the Fiji Kulas. This initiative serves not only to advance her career but also to enhance women’s football in Fiji, promising a brighter future for aspiring female athletes in the region.
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