Vika Nakacia has overcome significant challenges in her journey to becoming a professional rugby player. Her perseverance has now paid off as she has been selected to join Fiji’s women’s sevens team for the upcoming tournament in Dubai.
Nakacia began her rugby career in 2020 playing rugby league, then transitioned to sevens rugby two years later. She plays for Ezers, a newly established club, and previously represented the Namoli Wests Tigers in rugby league, where they reached the semi-finals.
Despite facing criticism regarding women’s participation in rugby and financial barriers that hinder her ability to buy proper gear, Nakacia uses these challenges to fuel her determination to improve. She often walks long distances to training when she’s unable to afford bus fare, demonstrating her commitment to the sport.
Her passion for rugby has not come without familial struggles; initially, her parents were not supportive of her decision to pursue the sport. Nakacia started playing rugby during her Year 13 at Ba Provincial Free Bird Institute in Lautoka, although she did not finish her education. However, being part of the national team has inspired her to complete her high school education and pursue a degree in accounting.
Nakacia encourages young girls to believe in themselves and to pursue rugby if they have the desire to do so, reinforcing the idea that with determination and faith, anything is achievable. She finds motivation in her admiration for Jerry Tuwai, a player for the Fiji men’s sevens team, who advised her to trust the process and stay focused on her aspirations.
This story is a testament to the power of resilience and the importance of believing in oneself, especially for young women in sports. Nakacia’s journey serves as an inspiration that, despite obstacles, success is attainable with hard work and dedication. Her hopes for the future highlight not only a personal achievement but also the promise of inspiring future generations of female athletes.
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