Tonga’s women’s rugby team witnessed a heartfelt moment at Lawaqa Park in Sigatoka as 22-year-old Courtney Afeaki made her debut on Fijian soil, the home of her father, Senirusi Seruvakula, head coach of SportsWorld Fiji U20. Although Tonga faced a challenging match against the Vodafone Fijiana XV, losing 5-59, Afeaki cherished the personal significance of playing in Fiji for the first time.
“This game is special. Playing in Fiji for the first time, especially on my father’s home soil, means so much,” Afeaki expressed. She takes pride in her Tongan heritage through her mother, Losaline Afeaki, hailing from Ha’apai Island. Despite the defeat, she remained upbeat: “I’m happy with the game even though we lost. We’ve learnt a lot and will take this experience to improve.”
This was only Afeaki’s second international appearance, yet she harbors aspirations of securing an overseas contract to elevate her rugby career. The emotional connection between father and daughter was palpable, with Seruvakula voicing pride in watching his daughter represent Tonga in their match against Fiji.
This match not only reflects the competitive spirit of women’s rugby in the Pacific but serves as an example of the strong familial bonds that accompany the sport. Afeaki’s journey mirrors that of other aspiring athletes, showcasing hope for the future of rugby in the region. The continuous support and growth of women’s rugby in Tonga and Fiji are encouraging signs for fans and players alike, inspiring future generations to pursue their dreams on the field.
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