Shaid Sasalu, a promising netball talent, is living her childhood dream of playing at the highest level. At 21 years old, she is part of the Fiji Baby Pearls squad that is set to compete at the Netball World Youth Cup in Gibraltar. Born in Australia but with roots in Tailevu, Fiji, Sasalu faced the difficult decision of which country to represent. She ultimately chose to honor her heritage and join the Baby Pearls, having been a part of the team for three years.
Reflecting on her journey, Sasalu shares her excitement about representing Fiji and her eagerness to embrace her culture and heritage. Her journey with the Baby Pearls has been a fulfilling experience, allowing her to connect with her roots while achieving her sporting aspirations.
The Fiji Baby Pearls are set to kick off their World Cup campaign with a match against Trinidad and Tobago on Saturday. Their preparation reflects a broader journey of dedication and unity within the team, under the guidance of head coach Simone Nalatu. Nalatu and her coaching staff have been steadfast in providing rigorous training and exposure opportunities, which for team members like Sasalu, signify not just personal milestones but collective achievements for Fijian netball.
This journey is part of a broader narrative of rising talent and increasing prominence of netball in Fiji, fostering a sense of community and national pride. The Baby Pearls’ endeavors serve as inspiration for future generations of netball players in Fiji. With such talent and determination, the future of Fijian netball appears bright and full of potential.
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