Akosita Ravato-Marr, a police officer, has decided to retire from rugby to focus solely on her family.
“In all my six years with Suva rugby, I’ve never received an award. To get one as I’m leaving rugby, I feel truly grateful and blessed. I thank God for the talent and these six years I’ve been able to give back and represent my provincial team,” she said.
“I want to dedicate this award to my mother, who has been my inspiration in everything I do. I hope these little qualities from my upbringing will inspire other women in the team, so when they leave rugby, they’ll have something valuable to share with younger women in provincial rugby.”
Her decision is influenced by her husband, Alexander Marr, and her two sons.
“I am married now, and my focus must shift. I have responsibilities with my two sons. They grew up knowing that their mom is always playing rugby, always away on tours, so I think it’s time to change that.”
“There is a season for everything, and I’m grateful for the opportunity ahead, which is to look after my sons and my family. My husband is away, and I am playing both mum and dad, so I have a little more time to give them the attention they’ve missed,” she added.
Ravato-Marr, part of the Fijian Drua Women that won the inaugural Super W title in 2022, had a valuable message for her fellow rugby players.
“It comes down to how badly you want it. If you set a goal, you have to make sacrifices, manage your time, and prioritize. Sacrifice involves decision-making, whether to train or hang out with friends, especially when balancing school or work. That balance and self-discipline are crucial. I encourage young women, especially my sisters, to make good decisions and stay disciplined to achieve their goals.”
She hopes her final performance will be in this year’s Ratu Sukuna Bowl challenge between the Police and Army.
Ravato-Marr played multiple positions, including first five-eighth and rover in sevens rugby since 2011 and made her national debut two years later during the Coral Coast 7s. She was one of the inaugural players for Suva in 2017 when the women’s competition started, playing alongside Laisa Taga and Mere Moto.