The netball community is honoring the memory of Wainikiti Bogidrau, a dedicated administrator who made significant contributions to the sport. Bogidrau passed away on Tuesday at the age of 56.
Her journey in netball administration began over 20 years ago, culminating in her role as the President of Netball Fiji from 2010 to 2020. In 2019, she was elected to serve on the World Netball Board as the Director for the Oceania region, a position that highlighted her commitment and leadership in the sport.
World Netball released a statement reflecting on her impact, stating, “Kiti has been an integral part of the netball family for many years and has made many friends.” They acknowledged her vital leadership roles, which contributed to considerable advancements not only within Fiji but also across the Oceania region and globally.
Tributes have poured in from netball organizations around the world, including those from New Zealand, South Africa, Wales, and Namibia, illustrating her widespread influence. Netball Fiji described her deep passion for the sport and her energetic leadership that inspired many.
In addition to her advocacy for the sport, Bogidrau also emphasized the need for Fiji’s national team to engage in more competitive matches to enhance their skills. She was instrumental in launching the “Friends of Netball” initiative in 2010, which successfully raised funds for the national team’s participation in the World Cup qualifiers.
Netball Fiji President RubyAnn Sorovaki expressed deep appreciation for Bogidrau’s contributions, stating, “She will be dearly missed. Our condolences go out to her family during this sad time.”
Beyond netball, Bogidrau held various positions, including one at the Fiji National Provident Fund, where she was recognized for her vibrant personality and passion for various causes, particularly for her family and spiritual life. The outpouring of grief from the community underscores the profound impact she had on those around her.
This tragic loss serves as a reminder of the lasting influence one individual can have within a community. Wainikiti Bogidrau’s legacy in netball and her dedication to sport will inspire future generations to continue striving for excellence. Her contributions and the values she embodied will be cherished by many.
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