Amena Nacavaraba, a 25-year-old basketball player, has made headlines by helping Fiji secure its first Men’s Netball Nations Series title. Standing at an impressive height of 2.12 meters (7 feet), Nacavaraba’s journey began in basketball, where he was competing for the Raiwaqa team before transitioning to netball at the Lomaiviti club on the recommendation of a teammate.
Despite having no previous experience in netball, Nacavaraba swiftly adapted his basketball skills and was soon noticed by the national coach, Jioweli Makare, leading to his selection for the national squad. Balancing his athletic commitments with his studies in chemistry and biology at the University of the South Pacific proved challenging. However, Nacavaraba’s dedication, time management, and disciplined approach enabled him to excel both as a student and an athlete.
His debut on the international stage was in Singapore, where he showcased his remarkable abilities, particularly during the final match against Australia. Nacavaraba described the experience as eye-opening, emphasizing how learning from prior encounters with teams like New Zealand and Australia helped them strategize for success. The thrilling victory, with a narrow score of 55-54, marked a significant milestone in his young career.
Nacavaraba sees his success not just as personal achievement but also as a representation of his country, utilizing his physical advantages effectively. Energized by this triumph, he plans to explore volleyball next, inspired by his teammate Nacanieli Goneyali, who plays both netball and volleyball.
This story epitomizes how passion, hard work, and a willingness to learn can lead to remarkable achievements. Nacavaraba represents a beacon of hope for aspiring athletes, illustrating that with determination and proper guidance, it is possible to succeed in multiple sports while managing other responsibilities.
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