Bese: I Almost Gave Up But I Was Urged To Keep On Playing Rugby
Making the move from athletics to rugby was not easy at first for Rooster Chicken Fijiana Drua winger Younis Bese.
Bese told FRU Media, that she was on the verge of giving up after their first training session.
“But I’m grateful to the girls and the manager for encouraging me and I was able to make a comeback,” she said.
Bese, who was one of the two replacement players that were flown in to join the side played against Waratahs and Brumbies.
“It has been a good experience,” Bese added.
Laqeretabua’s experience
Meanwhile, England-based Raijieli Laqeretabua is enjoying every moment spent with the Drua.
Laqeretabua is one of the regular starters on the team and has been controlling the play very well in the midfield.
The Saracens-based centre was a year old when she left Fiji. She hails from Tailevu with maternal links to Nadroga.
Laqeretabua said the language has not been a barrier for her as the players have been very helpful throughout the journey.
“Back at home, I have a lot of cousins but it is way different here as I’m learning more about the likes of my tau’s, vasu’s and other relationships between the different provinces.
“The girls are trying to get me to speak in Fijian and help me understand the language.
“I knew bits of it and I think this is the first I have been in this kind of environment. I knew this was something I was going to face.
“I haven’t actually come back home since I left and part of being here has kind of like made me feel more confident and comfortable and connects me back with the Island.”
Laqeretabua added that everyone in the team has been doing the hard yards so that they can win the Super W Championship.
“I think we have always remained humble and focused and have been giving credit where it’s due.”
Laqeretabua is one of the players who could make the Fijiana XVs extended squad for the upcoming Test matches against Japan and Wallaroos and the Rugby World Cup in New Zealand in October.
She promised to continue working hard until her main aim is accomplished.
“I think this is not the end of the tournament as there is a bigger picture for us.
“It has also been a learning process for all as for the first time the overseas-based players got the opportunity to be with the local players and learn the team culture and behaviour needed in this environment.”
The Fijiana Drua plays the Super W grand final on April 23 at AAMI Park, Melbourne, Australia.
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