Naomi Tegu, captain of the Lami Steelers, is set to represent the Fiji Bulikula squad in the Pacific Bowl Championship match against the Cook Islands on Saturday. The 18-year-old, who is a student at Richmond Methodist High School, moved from Kadavu to train under Vodafone Fiji Bati head coach Wise Kativerata at his rugby league academy.
Tegu reflected on her journey, mentioning that last year, she had no prior exposure to rugby league, and was only aware of basics like passing. “At the time, I was the deputy head girl at school,” she shared. It was during a visitation from Kativerata and his team for rugby league clinics that she got her chance.
Kativerata encouraged her to attend the national women’s rugby league training camp during the school holidays. Following his advice, she traveled with a teacher to the camp, where her rugby league career began. Tegu trained consistently, remaining at Kativerata’s residence after other participants left, and eventually joined the Lami Steelers for the local women’s competition.
Under her captaincy, the team advanced to the semi-finals of the Fiji National Rugby League Women (FNRLW) premiership tournament. Despite her unexpected selection for the Fiji Bulikula squad and her new role as a center, Tegu expressed her enthusiasm. “I am happy to be part of the squad. Our captain Holmes has encouraged us to bond and be cohesive in our gameplay,” she said.
Looking ahead to the match against the Cook Islands, Tegu emphasized the importance of a strong defense. “Each player must execute their role effectively, ensuring that our defensive line is secure and without gaps,” she added.
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