Naomi Tegu, the captain of the Lami Steelers, has achieved a significant milestone by earning a spot on the Fiji Bulikula team for the upcoming Pacific Bowl Championship against the Cook Islands on Saturday. The 18-year-old student from Richmond Methodist High School made the move from Kadavu to join the rugby league academy run by Vodafone Fiji Bati head coach Wise Kativerata.
Reflecting on her journey, Tegu shared that prior to last year’s clinic at her school, she had little exposure to rugby league. As the deputy head girl, she was unaware of the opportunities that lay ahead until Kativerata and his team conducted clinics.
After being encouraged by Kativerata to join the national team’s camp during school holidays, Tegu ventured to the camp with a teacher. Despite having minimal knowledge of the sport, she trained rigorously. Initially, she only knew how to pass but stayed back at Kativerata’s residence while the other academy participants returned home, allowing her to focus on her training.
Following her dedicated practice, Tegu joined the Lami Steelers in the local women’s competition where she served as captain and led the team to the semifinals of the Fiji National Rugby League Women’s premiership tournament. Surprised yet pleased with her selection for the Fiji Bulikula squad, she will play in the centre position.
Tegu expressed gratitude for the opportunity and emphasized the importance of teamwork and camaraderie as advised by their captain, Holmes. As they prepare for their match against the Cook Islands, she highlighted the need for a solid defensive strategy, urging her teammates to execute their roles effectively and maintain a strong defensive line.