Hardwork, Respect Key: Naikore
Rooster Chicken Fijiana Drua winger and top try scorer Vitalina Naikore advises women who aspire to don the white jumper in future to remain humble.
Naikore who scored eight tries in the Super W season rose to the limelight after her sterling performance scoring in almost every Fijiana game.
She scored a hat-trick in their 32-26 final win against Waratahs; she was awarded Player of the Final.
With those achievements Naikore indicated it took hardwork and respect.
“When I was young I used to play with the boys where I learnt a few stepping skills,” Naikore said.
“But I honestly did not know how I was able to do it in Super W.
“I know there are many girls out there who are talented but we have to train hard to be potential players.
“And to young girls who would want to don the white jumper – we should always humble ourselves, always listen and always let God lead you,” Naikore added.
Naikore hails from Nadivakarua, Kubulau, Bua and shares maternal links to Kilaka also in Kubulau, Bua.
Rooster Chicken Fijiana Drua forwards Vika Matarugu (left) and Jiowana Sauto in Labasa town, on May 16, 2022. Photo: Shratika Naidu
While playing football for the Labasa team she never thought that rugby would suit her.
“I always thank God for this talent,” she said.
“While playing football in Labasa, I never dreamt I would achieve this in rugby- as I only played rugby for one year.
“To my family back in Vanua Levu and here in Raiwaqa I thank you for your support during my training and throughout my rugby journey.
“The Fijiana Drua was a good experience for me.”
The former Holy Family Secondary School student was selected from the Macuata women’s team in the Vanua Championship in 2020.
Naikore said that Macuata women’s coach Maria Tamotubiu introduced her to rugby.
“Coach Motu would always advise me to train daily.
“Most days I’d walk from home just to attend training at Subrail Park.
“I never dreamt that was the start of something big such as this – going to Australia and winning the Super W.”
Naikore was hosted by fellow teammate, Doreen Narokete’s family in a joint celebration at Raiwaqa last Friday.
