Noelani Baselala, a former halfback for the Fijian Drua Women’s rugby team, recently made a significant life decision by opting to focus on her education over her rugby career. With the World Cup on the horizon, Baselala chose to adhere to her parents’ wishes for education before pursuing her dreams in the sport.
The 19-year-old, who once attended Adi Cakobau School, has applied for physiotherapy courses, aiming to maintain a connection to rugby through a medical career. Despite her desire to play in the World Cup, she prioritized her studies and faced her parents’ firm decision against taking a break from school for the sport.
Baselala reflected on her feelings of disappointment juxtaposed with gratitude after receiving a scholarship to study at the Pacific Flying School. Initially discouraged by the stiff competition, with over 500 applicants vying for just 20 spots, she felt blessed to be selected. Her mother’s message about the available scholarship propelled her to act quickly and take a test, showcasing her determination to succeed academically.
Additionally, Baselala’s recent involvement with the Vodafone Fijiana’s extended squad during the Oceania Rugby Women’s XV Championships highlighted her continued connection to the sport, where the team successfully defended their title.
This path reflects not only a commitment to education but also a remarkable balance between ambition in sports and responsibility towards family expectations. Baselala’s journey serves as an inspiration to young athletes, demonstrating that dreams can be pursued differently while honoring commitments to family and personal development.
In a broader context, her story resonates with the theme of women in sports, a narrative amplified by the achievements of other athletes like Salanieta Nabuli, who transitioned from local leagues to national representation, and Silika Rinieta Qalo, who switched from netball to rugby. These stories highlight the growing recognition of women’s sports in the Pacific region, underscoring the importance of education and personal growth alongside athletic aspirations.
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