The Fiji 21 & Under netball squad is set to participate in two upcoming competitions as they gear up for the Netball World Youth Cup in 2025. The first event is the Netball World Youth Cup Oceania Qualifiers, which will take place in the Cook Islands from September 16 to 21. Following that, the squad will host the Aotearoa Maori Netball International Secondary School (AMNISS) team in Fiji from September 21 to October 1.
Vivian Koster, the chief executive of Netball Fiji, noted that the national coaches evaluated the players during the recent Rising Stars tournament, which enabled them to choose the best teams for these competitions. Koster stated, “The Rising Stars tournament provided much-needed match play and an opportunity to see all our squad members in action. As a result, we were able to select the best team for the Oceania Qualifiers.”
She also expressed enthusiasm about hosting the AMNISS team, whose alumni include current members of ANZ Premiership teams and the Silver Ferns. The matches will provide valuable experience for the 21 & Under squad ahead of the World Youth Cup.
The Fiji 21 & Under Team for the Oceania Qualifiers includes: Talei Bogidua, Nina Nakula, Elina Drikibau, Mereoni Taqiri, Susana Rasaubale, Ateca Smith, Akisi Bolakoro, Nicole Kamotu, Soeli Toganivalu, Yvonne Nalewabau, Varanisese Vula, and Shaid Salusalu. Training partners consist of Seini Naulia, Lebha Cocker, Kristelle Sorovaki, and Ann Dee Matthias.
The Fiji Black Team, composed of players aged 19 to 21 for the AMNISS Tour, includes Seini Naulia, Kelera Dinawa, Anotolia Nuku, Sere Namosimalua, Siteri Nokelevu, Vutaieli Tokaduadua, Salote Vakamelei, and Vilisi Chivalele. This team will also feature five players identified from Secondary Schools and Super League competitions.
The Fiji Blue Team, consisting of players aged 18 and under for the AMNISS Tour, includes: Lebah Cocker, Sereana Matayawa, Merewairita Volivoli, Kristelle Sorovaki, Grace Naimawi, Tokasa Tuisovivi, Sainimere Tagicakiverata, Rhys Williams, Alisis Neisulu, Ann Dee Matthias, Lydia Tavesivesi, Ravaela Koroiravudi, and Hannah Matavesi.