Netball Fiji recorded a surge of interest at last week’s national trials, with head coach Michelle Parsons and national selectors confronted by unexpectedly large numbers of aspirants across the country as they hunt for talent for the Fiji Pearls and development squads.
The Western Division trials, hosted by the Nadroga Netball Association at Lawaqa Park in Sigatoka, drew more than 120 girls — one of the strongest turnouts of the series. In nearby Lautoka, more than 90 players attended trials despite the heat, where special thanks were paid to local organiser Dorothy Prasad for hosting Parsons and helping ensure the day ran smoothly. The Northern Division trials in Savusavu also exceeded expectations, registering over 80 participants who put forward competitive performances.
Attention then shifted to Suva for the Central and Eastern division trials, which drew a combined 180 players last weekend. Organisers said the Suva sessions included a large contingent from Fiji Secondary Schools, underlining strong interest among teenagers and reinforcing the pathway from school-level competition into national selection. Netball Fiji also accepted an invitation to attend trials hosted by the Fiji Western Muslim Women’s Sports Council, broadening the reach of the selection process.
Parsons described the nationwide turnout as “inspiring,” praising the enthusiasm and commitment shown by the young players. “It was an honour to witness so many girls turning up and showing their love for the game,” she said, noting the warm welcomes in each province and the depth of raw talent on display. Selectors spent the trial days assessing fitness, skill level and positional play as they build lists for the next phase of selections.
Organisers and Netball Fiji officials highlighted the community support that underpinned the trials, from provincial associations to individual hosts such as Prasad in Lautoka. The strong local organisation was credited with enabling large, well-run sessions that allowed coaches to see players in game-like conditions.
These nationwide trials now form the foundation for selecting the Fiji Pearls squad and development teams. With hundreds of hopefuls across five regions having been seen by selectors in recent days, Netball Fiji faces a task of narrowing down squads while aiming to preserve pathways for youth players emerging from school competitions. Officials say further announcements on shortlisted players and subsequent training camps will follow once selectors conclude their deliberations.