Prop Tabuanise enroute to representing Fiji
Elena Tabuanise sees rugby as a window of opportunity. The 15-year-old Nasinu Secondary School student last Saturday was named the player of the match in the Raluve Under-16 Southern Zone final against Naitasiri Secondary School.
She helped her Kinoya-based Nasinu schoolgirls side win 10-5; today she features in their quarterfinal match against Bucalevu Secondary School.
Daddy’s girl Tabuanise last week had her biggest fan, dad Watisoni Kaitaci at Suva Grammar School ground watch her play.
“I loved the way she played, I know it will take her to a good place,” Kaitaci said.
“I played rugby as well that is why I did not hesitate to let her play, I know she has her dreams and goals to achieve in rugby and she has my full support.”
The Lutu, Wainimala, Naitasiri prop shares maternal links to Nadroga .
Keep an eye out on her today as she is the side’s trump to fend off the Northerners.
Like last week the Nasinu Secondary School prop will be out today against the Northerners
Tabuanise had completed her primary school education at Muaira District School.
“My parents are always encouraging me to do better. They have been very supportive ever since I wanted to play rugby,” Tabuanise said.
“My dad advised me that if this is the path that I have chosen I should work hard for it.
“My parents both stay in the village while I board at Nasinu, which is tough at times.
“Being named the player of the final meant so much; I will continue to be consistent with training and my performance and work toward wearing the white jumper,” the Year 10 student added.
Lutu is also the village of former national rep Apisai Naqaliva.