The Fiji Times

Milika wants to be an Olympian

- FASANOC

THE opportunit­y to be known as an Olympian is what excites and motivates Milika Tokaicake as she continues to pursue her dream of making the final cut for Team Fiji Rugby Sevens Women’s to the Olympics in Paris, France in July.

The 26 year old Korovou, Navunisole, Tailevu native said to be part of an Olympic team would be a dream come true.

“The Olympics is the biggest stage for any athlete and to be a part of that team would make all the hard work and sacrifice worth it,” she said.

“Nothing is granted especially with our coach who will take the best possible team”.

“To be the best I have to be consistent and focused and also listen to the advice from my coaches and physio,” she said.

The former Tailevu North High School student said rugby was something she fell in love with after taking up the sport in high school.

“Rugby was never a part my plan growing up but that changed when I started to represent the school,” Milika said.

“I loved the team spirit and the chance to train and play alongside my friends.”

The eldest of four, Milika said she was always open to playing sport of any kind having also represente­d Fiji in AFL in 2017.

“Being outdoors is something I love, whether it is just being out in the farm or training, it didn’t matter to me as long as I was outdoors.

“I also try and be a positive role model for my younger siblings and other youth members in my community to be active and healthy,” she said.

Milika said she was happy to have been chosen for her first national duty last year during the Dubai and Cape Town World Rugby Sevens Series.

“I was excited but also nervous during my first game, but I was fortunate to have experience­d athletes beside me to help me throughout the two tournament­s.

“But now that I have a taste of the World Series, it has motivated me to up my game and try and make that final cut to the Paris 2024 Olympic Games.”

 ?? Picture: FASANOC ?? Members of the Team Fiji Rugby 7s women’s squad during a training session in Suva.
Picture: FASANOC Members of the Team Fiji Rugby 7s women’s squad during a training session in Suva.

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