The Fijiana Women’s 7s team recently visited the Suva Women’s Corrections Centre, where an emotional encounter led to tears from both the players and inmates. This visit was part of the team’s community outreach initiative aimed at uplifting the spirits of the inmates and included a donation.
During their visit, the team was deeply moved when the inmates sang a song dedicated to their favorite warden, COA Reijeli Daveua, who is also the captain of the Fijiana 7s team.
“I wanted the players to see firsthand why their captain is the way she is,” explained Fijiana 7s manager Luse Kotobalavu. “To have that touch of humility yet show grit in the face of adversity, it’s because she works here at Corrections, and we thank the Commissioner for allowing us to visit before we fly off.”
Kotobalavu added, “We also wanted to show them that they even inspire those who are in prison. Today, they felt so much love, compassion, and support, and it was a good reminder of who they are all playing for.”
Inmates and staff at the center are known to watch and cheer for the Fijiana team during their games, providing strong support for their captain.
“It was an experience these ladies will never forget. We hope our visit brought some joy to the women here, and we’ll keep them in our prayers,” Kotobalavu said.
Senior Superintendent Apakuki Qura expressed gratitude to the team for their visit. “Visits like this make those in our care feel happy and valued. It’s clear that the facility will be cheering loudly whenever the Fijiana play, especially during the Olympics,” he affirmed.