The Fiji men’s national netball team is preparing for its inaugural international tournament. Head coach Jioeli Makare announced that the invitation came from Singapore netball. The announcement of his 15-member squad is expected this week, following trials held last Saturday at the Fiji National University gymnasium in Nasinu.
The extended squad has been in training for six weeks. Makare emphasized the significance of this event, saying it marks the first time the men’s team will compete overseas in an international tournament. Six countries have confirmed their participation alongside Fiji, including New Zealand, Australia, England, Hong Kong, and Singapore.
Makare expressed optimism that this will be the first of many international competitions for the Fiji men’s team. He noted that trials conducted earlier this year in March featured only local players, as there were no overseas-based players. He has submitted the final roster of 15 players to the executive committee, awaiting their approval to inform the selected athletes.
In addition, Makare shared his hopes that netball could be included as an Olympic sport, as World Netball plans to collaborate with Netball Australia to advocate for netball’s inclusion in the Brisbane 2032 Olympic Games.
In related news, the Suva Swifts clinched the Finance Hub Super League title by defeating Lautoka 69-35 last Saturday. The winning team included members of the Pearls extended squad, with ace shooter Unaisi Rauluni receiving the Most Valuable Player (MVP) award. Other notable players on the team included Avelina Navue, Maliana Rusivakula, and Reama Verekauta.
Head coach Filo Korovulavula dedicated the victory to the Suva Netball Association committee and their sponsor, Netball IGA. Looking ahead, she expressed excitement about next year, stating their intention to take a team to Australia, focusing particularly on development players. Korovulavula praised the team’s performance, especially the younger players, and emphasized the importance of senior players mentoring them on the court.
Final results of the competition include:
– Suva Swifts 69-35 Lautoka Stars
– Fifth-place play-off: Nadroga Stallions 28-61 Baby Pearls Team Kikau
– Seventh-place play-off: Nadi 20-30 Tailevu Doves.