Ofakimalino plays for son
BY pursuing her passion for sports, Rooster Chicken Fijiana Drua lock Merevesi Ofakimalino has been able to take care of her only for child over the past 10 years.
Representing the country on the international stage in soccer and rugby, the single mother has been able to juggle the two and still take time out to spend with her son.
Ofakimalino shared the challenges she faces on and off the field during a talanoa session with representatives of different media organisations on Tuesday.
“My son is my main motivation. I am very fortunate to have a very strong support system from my family who usually looks after my child whenever I am in camp,” she said.
While speaking at the event, Ofakimalino said she had been able to handle all these responsibilities through the support of family, friends, and teammates.
“Having friends and teammates who are always supportive and very positive has been very helpful in my journey.”
When she is on the football field, the 29-year-old plays goalkeeper and has represented the Digicel Fiji Kula women’s side at a number of international tournaments over the years.
She has represented the Rewa district in multiple women’s football events in the country over the past five to seven years.
“Since football and rugby are at different times of the year, I am able to pursue both. I usually play for Rewa when I play soccer.”
Apart from the challenges on the rugby and football turf, the toughest one for the towering lock is staying away from her son for months on end.
“That’s the hardest part for me, just being away from my boy whenever I’m in camp.”
Ofakimalino was part of the Rooster Chicken Fijiana Drua side that won the Super W competition in their debut season last year and she dubs it as one of her greatest rugby moments.