The netball community in Fiji and beyond is mourning the untimely passing of a prominent figure in the sport, Wainikiti Naivalulevu Waqa Bogidrau. She held significant leadership roles, serving as the president of Oceania Netball and a director for the Oceania region on the World Netball Board at the time of her death at the age of 56.
Bogidrau’s dedication extended beyond her roles in netball; she was also a full-time employee at the Fiji National Provident Fund, where she served as the acting General Manager of Human Resources. Her contributions to the sport were profound, influencing various developments both domestically and regionally.
Her involvement in netball spanned over two decades, during which she notably served as Netball Fiji’s president from 2010 to 2020. Under her leadership, Fiji was awarded the hosting rights for the Netball World Youth Cup in 2021, although the event ultimately faced cancellation due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Expressions of condolence have poured in globally, including from family, friends, and various netball organizations, emphasizing her impact and legacy. World Netball described her as an “inspirational leader” whose commitment to the sport was evident through her lifelong passion for netball, both as a player and an administrator. Her memory will be cherished by many, as highlighted by tributes from international netball associations.
Bogidrau’s vision and leadership opened many opportunities in the sport, promoting funding and support for initiatives like the “Friends of Netball” group she established in 2010 to support the national team. In recognition of her contributions, she was made a Life Member of the Fiji Netball Association in 2020.
Netball Fiji President RubyAnn Sorovaki expressed deep gratitude for Bogidrau’s pioneering leadership and contributions, affirming, “She will be dearly missed.” She is survived by her daughter, also named Wainikiti.
Ultimately, while the community grieves the loss of an influential leader, it also recognizes the lasting positive impact she made in the world of netball, inspiring future generations to continue her legacy of dedication and service to the sport.
This article serves as a poignant reminder of how a single individual can shape a community and foster opportunities for growth and development in a beloved sport.
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