Fiji’s Baby Pearls are deep into the final phase of their World Youth Cup build-up in Gibraltar, with head coach Simone Nalatu focusing on clarity around each player’s role and responsibilities across positions. Nalatu says the team has spent the last weeks at home sharpening skills and building confidence so that when they board the plane they have “left no stones unturned.”
The squad’s preparations are rigorous. Team manager Lusiana Rakavono oversaw a demanding five-session week that blends gym work and on-court practice, aimed at fine-tuning tactics, speed, and decision-making under pressure. The plan includes high-intensity scrimmages and dedicated fitness work to ensure players can handle the pace of top-level youth netball.
Three overseas-based players are expected to join the Baby Pearls soon, adding depth and experience to the core squad. They will align with the team’s training program and work closely with the strength and conditioning staff to ensure a smooth integration ahead of Gibraltar.
The Baby Pearls have already been putting their game sense to the test in recent tune-ups, including scrimmages with other under-21 teams and exposure sessions against Fiji’s Men’s netball team to raise tempo and intensity. This cross-training approach is part of a broader strategy to sharpen speed, strength, decision-making, and on-court chemistry ahead of the world event.
The team is set to depart for Gibraltar this Friday, with their World Cup opener against Trinidad & Tobago slated for the following Friday. The World Youth Cup runs from September 19-28, and Fiji is aiming to make a strong, competitive impact on the world stage. Fiji’s pool for the tournament features a challenging lineup, including South Africa, Malawi, Barbados, and Trinidad & Tobago, reflecting the high level of youth netball on display.
Behind the on-court grind is a broader mission: to elevate netball in Fiji and inspire the next generation of players. The Baby Pearls’ ongoing preparation—fueled by cross-border collaboration, community engagement, and international exposure—highlights Fiji’s growing prominence in youth netball and its commitment to developing talent for the long term.
In addition to the on-court work, the team has been stepping up community involvement and international competition exposure as part of a comprehensive readiness plan. The blend of local training, overseas talent, and high-intensity scrimmage play positions the Baby Pearls to put forward a strong showing in Gibraltar and continue to raise the sport’s profile back home.
Fiji’s Baby Pearls are in the final stages of NWYC prep, combining a rigorous five-session weekly program with targeted scrimmages, overseas-based players joining soon, and strategic cross-training. They depart for Gibraltar this Friday and will open their campaign against Trinidad & Tobago next Friday, as the world’s top U21 teams converge in Gibraltar. The preparation underscores a hopeful, positive trajectory for Fiji’s rising netball talent and its impact on future generations.
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