Former Fiji Pearls captain and head coach Unaisi Rokoura was laid to rest this morning at the Lovonilase Cemetery in Suva, surrounded by a community that deeply valued her contributions to netball. Family, friends, and former representatives from various sporting bodies gathered at the Nabua Methodist Church to pay their final tributes.
Netball Fiji President Ruby-Ann Sorovaki remarked on the profound loss of Rokoura, describing her passing as a significant blow to the sport. “While we are saddened by her passing, we are grateful to someone who has dedicated years of her life to the development of netball in Fiji. Thank you for all that you’ve done Una, you will be missed,” Sorovaki shared, highlighting Rokoura’s relentless dedication and influence within the netball community.
Rokoura’s legacy in netball is rich and storied, having represented Fiji at six Pacific Games, two Commonwealth Games, and two Netball World Championships, along with serving as the captain of the Fiji Pearls from 1997 to 2006. Her leadership extended into coaching, where she guided the Fiji Pearls as head coach from 2009 until 2013 and returned to lead the team again from 2022 through 2024.
Beyond her netball achievements, she was known for her versatility as an athlete, excelling in various sports including hockey, rugby, basketball, and beach volleyball. Her contributions spanned beyond Fiji, as she also coached the Papua New Guinea Pepes and was involved as a Country Coordinator for NetGO Fiji from 2017 to 2022, showcasing her commitment to the sport both regionally and internationally.
As the netball community mourns her tragic passing, which was a result of a drowning incident while she gathered freshwater mussels, there is a collective sense of gratitude for the passion and mentorship she provided to countless athletes. Her dedication to empowering others will leave a lasting impact, inspiring future generations in sports.
With heartfelt tributes flowing in from colleagues and players alike, the spirit of Unaisi Rokoura continues to resonate in the hearts of those she inspired. Her legacy is a reflection of strength, mentorship, and unwavering dedication to the community and the sport she cherished.
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