At just 23 years old, Adi Sokula Waqa is already a shining star in Fijian rugby league, having proudly donned the Fiji Bulikula jersey and represented her nation. Yet, Waqa feels her journey is far from over. With an inspiring determination, she aims to secure her spot in the Women’s Rugby League World Cup, the pinnacle of women’s rugby league.
Waqa’s path to the national team began unexpectedly on her university campus, where she discovered a flyer seeking players for the USP Raiders. Intrigued, she took a leap of faith, which ultimately shifted the course of her life. Her talent quickly captured the attention of national selectors, leading to her inclusion in the Bulikula squad for the Pacific Championship held in Papua New Guinea in 2023.
Waqa expressed her ambitions, stating, “Ever since I started, the goal was to represent Fiji, but the main focus was to make it to the World Cup squad. So that’s my main focus right now, just to improve on my fitness and stuff like that.” The former Dudley High School student has previously made her mark by participating in the Pacific Games, further illustrating her commitment to the sport.
The upcoming 2026 Women’s Rugby League World Cup, to be hosted in Australia, serves as Waqa’s compass as she trains and prepares for the trials that lie ahead. Her story aligns with the aspirations of her peers on the Fiji Bulikula team, who are also vying for a spot at this prestigious event.
In a similar vein, Fiji Bulikula aims for its first-ever World Cup qualification, an endeavor that signifies the growing recognition of women’s sports within the nation. The team made serious strides last year, rising in the international rankings and showcasing the raw talent and passion for rugby league that Fiji is known for.
Waqa and her fellow players are not just competing for glory; they are aspiring to serve as role models for future generations of female athletes in Fiji. Their journey embodies a hopeful narrative of progress not only in women’s rugby but also in the broader landscape of sports in Fiji. With continued training, dedication, and support, the Fiji Bulikula team, including Waqa, represents the promise of what is yet to come on the global stage.
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