Fijiana player Meredani Qoro is anticipating making a significant impact at the Paris Olympics as a first-time Olympian.
“I want to thank God for his guidance in my journey as I never dreamt that I’d be part of the 15-member squad to the Olympics,” Qoro said.
“I want to thank coach Saiasi Fuli for his belief in me, as our preparation has been difficult. We approached everything with a determined spirit.”
Qoro mentioned that she remained resilient despite the challenges she faced in her rugby journey.
“My passport was burned by my brother to discourage me from playing rugby in 2022 on my mother’s advice,” she said. “I was not disheartened because I continued to seek opportunities in the sport that I love.”
Qoro noted that her Fijiana teammate Ana Maria Naimasi has been a role model.
“I watched her (Naimasi) on television and whenever rugby training is difficult, or I face difficulties at home, I usually read her story as a source of motivation,” she said. “I watched the team’s bronze medal win on television at the Tokyo sevens Olympics in 2021.”
The former Saint Thomas High School student took it upon herself to play rugby after witnessing Fijiana’s sevens team win a bronze medal at the Tokyo Olympics.
Qoro hails from Vatutu Village in Nawaka and has maternal links to Bucalevu, Ra.