The Fijiana Women’s 7s team recently visited the Suva Women’s Corrections Centre, receiving an emotional welcome that brought both players and inmates to tears.
This visit was part of the team’s community outreach efforts intended to lift the spirits of the inmates, which included a donation.
A notable moment during the visit was when the inmates sang a song they composed for their favorite warden, COA Reijeli Daveua, who also happens to be the captain of the Fijiana 7s team.
“I wanted the players to see firsthand why their captain is the way she is,” explained Fijiana 7s manager Luse Kotobalavu.
“To have that touch of humility yet show grit in the face of adversity, it’s because she works here at Corrections and we thank the Commissioner for allowing us to visit before we fly off.”
“We also wanted to show them that they even inspire those who are in prison. Today, they felt so much love, compassion, and support. It was a good reminder of who they are all playing for,” Kotobalavu added.
Inmates and staff at the center are known for watching and cheering for the Fijiana team during their games, providing strong support for their captain.
“It was an experience these ladies will never forget. We hope our visit brought some joy to the women here, and we’ll keep them in our prayers,” Kotobalavu said.
Snr Superintendent Apakuki Qura expressed his gratitude for the team’s visit, stating, “Visits like this make those in our care feel happy and valued. It’s clear that the facility will be cheering loudly whenever the Fijiana play, especially during the Olympics.”