Elenoa Gukirewa, an extended squad member of the Fiji Pearls, is actively vying for a starting position in the national netball team as they kick off their 2026 campaign with a spirited training camp at Vodafone Arena last Saturday. The Grasshoppers defender, who plays both goal defence and goalkeeper, has a long history of playing netball that began in her school days at St. Joseph and she is well-versed in high-level competitions.
With an influx of new talent entering the scene, Gukirewa acknowledges that the competition for selection is particularly fierce this year. “It’s tough because there are so many promising players coming through,” she commented, emphasizing her commitment to fitness and securing her role in the team for the upcoming qualifiers.
The recent training camp offered an excellent opportunity for Gukirewa and her teammates to refine their skills and assess their fitness levels after the offseason. The camp featured fitness evaluations and match simulations, and interestingly, saw both the women’s and men’s squads training together, reflecting Netball Fiji’s comprehensive approach to team preparation.
“It felt great to be back on the court, pushing myself alongside my friends and teammates,” Gukirewa shared. The team is dedicated to enhancing their fitness and cohesion ahead of what they anticipate will be a challenging season.
As the World Cup qualifiers approach, the urgency to perform is palpable. The Fiji Pearls are resolute in their mission to claim their place on the global stage, with players like Gukirewa prepared to rise to the occasion. Under interim coach Jioweli Vakamoce, Gukirewa’s unwavering determination and experience are positioned as essential components in the Pearls’ pursuit of qualification and regional supremacy.
This initial training camp marks just the beginning of the team’s preparations, and for Gukirewa, it represents a crucial step towards securing a spot in the starting lineup and making a substantial contribution to Fiji’s netball aspirations this year. With a focus on hard work and camaraderie, the future looks promising as the Fiji Pearls embark on this journey together.
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