Former Fijian Pearls rep eyed for Telecom Fijiana mastermind role

Former Fijian Pearls centre Vaiti Waqatabu aims to be a productive playmaker for the Telecom Fijiana side in the next round of the Women Sevens Series.

“The coaching staff wants me to be the playmaker. It’s a big challenge but I will get through this,” Waqatabu said.

She believes a netball centre and a rugby playmaker plays a same but central roles.

“The challenge is the same and all I need to do is to have more game time and work on tackling and ball skills.”

The Rewasa, Ra native was selected to take part in the World Sevens Series in Dubai last month.

“But she did not have a chance of making her debut.

“It’s so unfortunate that I was sick with chicken pox before game day in Dubai. It’s one of those things that you need to deal with and move on.

“I was happy making the team knowing I just spent eight weeks with them. And it was also very challenging to be part of the team and to be at that level.”

Waqatabu plans to step up her preparations for the new season.

“My aim is to have more game time with the team and to make it to Rio Olympics in August.

“I need to sacrifice, improve my fitness and I’ve to give up alcohol.”

Unity is one thing the Fiji Corrections officer loves about her new rugby family.

“When I made the switch, the girls were very welcoming, it’s just like we’ve been together for many years.”

Being brought up by her a single parent,  Waqatabu acknowledges her mother Kelera Waqatabu on her never ending support. She is the youngest in the family of two.

“I dedicate all these achievements to my Mum who’s been there for me throughout and is always supporting me.

“I also want to thank my workmates, teammates friends and relatives for their support.”

SAO PAULO NEXT STEP

After a first round full of upsets in Dubai, the São Paulo tournament is set for some top matches next February.

Massive crowds in Dubai for a final that saw Australia put down a marker, two thrilling matches on the main pitch that went to extra-time keeping the crowds enthralled, and many new fans made in front of record TV audiences.

NEW REFEREE

Meanwhile, South Africa’s Aimee Barrett has been added to the World Rugby Women’s match officials’ squad.

The former international player impressed referee manager Paddy O’Brien and his team of selectors with her past performances, including her officiating in Dubai and the recent Africa Olympic qualifiers, and will join up with the squad in 2016.

.

Feedback:  ranobab@fijisun.com.fj