Primary school midcourt player Lani­eta Bota was the youngest netballer at this week’s Digicel Punjas national championship at the National Netball Cen­tre.

Bota, 13 is in Year 8 at the Ratu Nacagilevu Memorial School.

The Mokoisa, Ravitaki, Kadavu teenager played entre for the Naboutini , the lone en­trant from Kadavu.

Yesterday she helped her side beat Nas­inu 14-8 in the quarterfinal. The side then advanced to the semis and beat Secondary Schools 15-14 in the semifinal.

It was the first time for her to participate at the national championship.

“I was nervous at first playing against big teams,” Bota said.

“My teammates encouraged me to not lose hope and do my best.

“This was a good exposure for me and I would work hard towards donning the nation­al colours in the U21 squad.

“Coming to Suva to watch and play against district reps has been em­powering.

“I would like to come as often as I can to play at this level.

“There has never been a Fijian Pearl from my village and I would like to be the first.”

Bota was inspired by teammate Seini Lutui­wasa.

She started playing for Naboutini for the past three years when she was in Year 5.

“I like playing netball and I am grateful for this opportunity.

“I picked up a lot of new things and I am lucky to be here.”

Bota added that being a good listener would help her achieve her dream.

This edition went to press before Naboutini played Suva White in the U18 final last night.

Story By: sereana.salalo@fijisun.com.fj