Journey to nationals
TWENTY-ONE-YEAR-OLD Salanieta ‘Big Shirley’ Nabuli secured a lucrative rugby offer in the national side last year with the Fiji Airways Fijiana 7’s team for the 2023 WXV.
A product of Vatubalavu Village in the highlands of Navosa, Salanieta is the first from her village in the remote region to earn a spot in the national rugby side.
The soft spoken rugger began her rugby journey with the Navosa Womens Rugby team last year before being chosen to play in the WXV in Japan and Dubai.
“I was so excited to be travelling that far and I got to eat real sushi,” Sala said with a huge laugh.
She dropped out of Dudley High School at Form 6 and lived with her parents in Navosa, but Sala shared she did not regret staying home with her parents because help was needed at their family farm.
Being the eldest (and the only girl) of three siblings, Sala took it up on herself to look after their family farm.
She would help around with the house chores, plant watermelons with her dad and brothers and then end the day with a game of rugby.
Little did she know that one day she’d be part of the national women’s 7s team.
She said the immense support she’s been receiving from family and loved ones have fuelled her passion in fulfilling her role as a prop.
“My family has always been supportive. They’ve been encouraging me to do better and be better, as a person and as a player.
“Every day they remind me to be obedient while in camp and to show discipline.
“But it’s mostly them telling me to listen to my coach and trainers because this is a door of opportunity for me and I want to make them proud.”
In addition to rugby as the sport she loves to play, Sala will always choose rourou (cooked taro leaves) as her favourite dish.
Funnily enough, since joining the women’s Drua camp, Sala would request for rourou whatever time of day it is. Even to the point where she would ask for cooked lettuce.
“That’s how much she misses home,” said Strength & Conditioning coach Mere Moto.
A huge fan of Semi Radradra, Sala aims to be as skilful as the lanky winger and works on improving herself after every game.
“When you are in the position I’m in right now, the only thing that’s needed from you is obedience and discipline. You already have the talent.
“To all my young friends out there, if you’re reading this, let’s continue to listen to our parents while they are still with us.
“For sure, God will bless us in many ways just like how he has blessed me to play for Fiji.”