Salanieta ‘Big Shirley’ Nabuli, a 21-year-old rugby player, made headlines last year by securing a spot on the Fiji Airways Fijiana 7’s team for the 2023 WXV. Hailing from Vatubalavu village in Navosa’s highlands, Nabuli is the first female from her village to represent the national women’s rugby team.
Nabuli’s rugby career began last year with the Navosa Women’s rugby team, and shortly after, she was selected to participate in the WXV tournaments held in Japan and Dubai. Expressing her excitement, she remarked, “I was so excited to be traveling that far. I got to eat real sushi.”
She left Dudley High School while in Form 6 to assist her parents on their family farm. Reflecting on her decision, she has no regrets about prioritizing her family’s needs. As the eldest child and only daughter, Nabuli dedicated herself to supporting her parents, while also attending rugby training in the afternoons.
Unbeknownst to her at the time, this path would lead to her selection for the national women’s 7s team. She attributes her success to the unwavering support of her family, who encouraged her in her journey as a rugby player. “My family has always been supportive. They’ve been encouraging me to do better and be better, as a person and as a player,” she stated.
Nabuli emphasized the importance of obedience and discipline during her training, noting that her family reminded her to be respectful and to heed the advice of her coaches. She aspires to make them proud, viewing this opportunity as a significant milestone in her rugby career.
Staying true to her roots, Nabuli enjoys her favorite dish, rourou, made from taro leaves, showcasing her love for fresh vegetables. Her strength and conditioning coach, Mere Moto, shared that Nabuli often requests rourou, highlighting her connection to home.
A fan of the well-known rugby player Semi Radradra, Nabuli aims to emulate his skills while striving to improve in every game. She encourages young people to listen to their parents, believing that doing so will lead to blessings, much like those she has received in her rugby career for Fiji.