Kesaia Boletakanakadavu, a nominee for Sportswoman of the Year and former gold medalist in the 100m at the Fiji Finals, is making a significant shift from athletics to rugby league. This change follows her departure from competitive track events after the Oceania Championship earlier this year, as she pursues her aspiration of playing rugby league.
Originating from Nakaugasele in Nakasaleka, Kadavu, playing rugby league has been a childhood dream for Boletakanakadavu. “I’m playing league right now. When I was small, it was one of my dreams to play rugby and wear the white jersey one day,” she expressed.
The 20-year-old athlete has been influenced by Heleina Young, a former sprinter and member of the current Fijiana 7s squad. Young, who also competed in the 100m and 200m events during her time at St Joseph’s Secondary School, eventually transitioned to rugby and played for the Reds in Super W before joining the Fijiana 7s team last year.
Boletakanakadavu recently participated in her first league game and has plans to expand her experience overseas. She is currently focused on enhancing her skills with local teams in Fiji. Taking an academic break from her studies at Adi Cakobau School and Mahatma Gandhi Memorial High School, she is fully dedicated to her sports ambitions, acknowledging the commitment and sacrifices needed for this journey.