Seventeen-year-old Carletta Yee is set to make her Test debut for the Vodafone Fijiana 15s this Saturday against Manusina Samoa in the final round of the 2025 Oceania Rugby Women’s Championship at Lawaqa Park. Her selection comes as part of a fresh squad announced by head coach Ioan Cunningham, who has prioritized a youth-and-experience blend in his lineup.
Playing for the Suva-based Striders Rugby Club, Yee’s inclusion on the bench marks a significant milestone, as she is among the youngest players to represent Fijiana. With a background in St Joseph’s Secondary and MGM School, Yee’s journey reflects the increasing opportunities for young athletes in Fijian women’s rugby.
Cunningham has emphasized the importance of this match as both a test of skills and a preparation for the Women’s Rugby World Cup later this year. Acknowledging the physicality of their opponents, he noted, “Samoa are well-coached and highly physical. They beat us in WXV last year, so this test will be a great benchmark for our World Cup preparations.”
On the tactical front, the coach has infused the squad with familiar experience, such as captain Setaita Railumu, who played a pivotal role in their recent 59-5 victory over Tonga. The mix includes dynamic talents like winger Michella’e Stolz, who will also be making her first start, and veteran Luisa Tisolo returning to fullback.
Cunningham lauded the growth of the younger players, stating, “It’s been inspiring to see our young players step up with confidence. They’ve brought new energy and are developing quickly within the team environment.” He also reflected positively on their last match, where the team adapted well to challenging conditions, showcasing considerable improvement in game strategy and execution.
The Twenty-five Test match against Samoa promises excitement as it not only allows the Fijiana to gauge their progress but also fosters a spirit of competition that can ignite further growth in women’s rugby. Both teams are set to clash at 4 PM at Lawaqa Park in Sigatoka, providing a platform for Fijiana to demonstrate their skills and inspire future generations of athletes.
This exciting moment underscores the increasing recognition of women’s rugby in Fiji, symbolizing growth and hope for aspiring young players like Yee. With a commitment to blend established talent with new energy, the future of women’s rugby in Fiji looks very promising.
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