The FMF Suva women’s rugby teams were honored on Saturday night for another triumphant season in the ANZ Marama Championship.
Suva captured three trophies this season with both the under-20 and senior teams securing the Marama trophies. The senior team also won the newly introduced Pio Bosco Trophy.
Head coach Tavaita Rowati, the second female accredited level 3 coach in the country, emphasized the values of maintaining standards and consistency since winning the championship in 2022.
“Getting the right staff who can coach and nurture women with the basics is crucial. We’re working here voluntarily, driven by our passion for the sport and for women playing rugby. Our goal was to win all three championships,” Rowati stated.
She highlighted the importance of financial backing, which was a challenge for them. However, support from friends and families who believed in their journey was instrumental in their success.
The former Fijiana representative, who played a key role in the senior team’s success, instilled in the players the understanding that a championship title requires hard work and sacrifices.
“This victory wasn’t planned just this year; it has been building over three years. We aimed to win all three trophies, which required thorough planning and having the right people to execute that plan,” she said.
For the first time, Suva held an awards night for the women’s team to recognize their achievements throughout the season.
Sixteen sponsored awards were given out, something that was unprecedented especially during Rowati’s playing years.
Under-20 award recipients: Breakthrough Player of the Year: Silina Baselala, Most Consistent Player: Tiale Rokini, Top Try Scorer: Michelle Seruvatu (19 tries), Try of the Season: Ateca Nacaucauceva, Rookie of the Year: Grace Masikerei, Most Improved Player: Naomi Raqauqau, People’s Choice: Dorothy Turogo, Best Backline Player: Meleia Nareki, High Achiever: Ilisapeci Sararu, Best Player: Carletta Yee, MVP: Lusiana Keperieli.
Senior award recipients: Breakthrough Player of the Year: Luisa Valamalua, Most Consistent Player: Ema Adivitaloga, Top Try Scorer: Varitema Adi Waikalo, Try of the Season: Loata Berenado, Rookie of the Season: Kinisimere Kunawave, Most Improved Player: Filorina Kasami, People’s Choice Award: Talei Toga, Best Backline of the Year: Ivamere Nabura, Best Forward: Isabella Koi, High Achiever: Maria Rokotuisiga, Best Player of the Year: Alisi Galo, MVP: Akosita Ravato-Marr.