Neivosa runs in 14 jumper

AT just 21 years old, Merewarita Neivosa showed resilience and determination as she prepares to make her debut in the No 14 jumper for the Rooster Chicken Fijian Drua W side against the Reds this Sunday.

With her eyes fixed on the pitch and her heart brimming with gratitude, she reflects on the journey that has brought her to this pivotal moment.

“I have always dreamt to be part of the Drua side.

“I started with provincial rugby, then progressed to Fijiana, and now I’ve joined the Drua this season. I thank God for answering my prayers,” Neivosa said.

Despite facing financial challenges back home, including struggles to afford bus fares to training venues in Nadroga, Neivosa remained undeterred.

“One of the challenges i went through during my rugby journey is when i have no bus fares to the training venue in Nadroga but i found ways to make it to the training field.

“I just keep myself focus on my rugby career and this has been rewarded after earning my spot in the Drua team this season,” Neivosa said.

Neivosa’s perseverance paid off, earning her a coveted spot in the Drua team this season. It’s a testament to her unwavering dedication and unwavering resolve.

“Even amidst financial struggles and a knee injury that sidelined me in 2020, I never lost hope,” she reflects. “I’m grateful to have achieved my goal.”

Her love for rugby blossomed during her upbringing in her village Nabau, Tuva in Nadroga, where she honed her skills playing with village boys. Inspired by her cousin sister, Reapi Uluinasau’s, achievements in the Fijiana 7s team, Neivosa harboured dreams of following in her footsteps.

“I love rugby when i was small playing with the village boys and always follow my cousin Reapi Uluinasau around, seeing her play for Fiji makes me think one day I will be like her.”

Neivosa who has maternal links to Saqani, Cakaudrove is determined to leave her mark come Sunday.

“This week’s game i will try to give my best and sealed my spot in the wing position.”

She attended Tuva Primary School then joined Jasper Williams High School and finished her high School studies in Cuvu College where she began her rugby career in 2019 also the same year, she played Provincial rugby with Nadroga Rugby.

Last year she represented Fijiana XV in Dubai and Japan tour.