Mereani Solevu had to ask her parents to be allowed to camp for the Fijiana 7s team for the Pacific Games.

The former Adi Cakobau School student played netball; her dad was not happy with her choice to swap her netball bibs for a pair of rugby boots

The 19-year-old from Vatoa, Bau, Tailevu is the youngest member of the Fijiana side for the Honiara Games. She shares maternal inks to Dama, Nakorotubu, Ra.

Solevu started playing for Striders and was drafted into the Fijiana squad after a sevens tournament in Sigatoka.

She is inspired by Olympian Reapi Ulunisau and hopes to replace her one day.

“When I walked in to camp, there was so much difference in training and the environment compared to playing at a club level,” she said.

“I could not take the pressure of training on the first day and I told coach Fuli (Saiasi) that I wanted to return home.

“He encouraged me that it was my first time and I will get there. My teammates were also helpful, they encouraged me to maintain discipline and I’m grateful for that.

“When my dad he told me not to come to camp, I asked them to give me a chance to at least be a member of the Fijiana team once. I’m glad that my mother supported my choice.

“I’m happy that I’ve been given this chance to represent Fiji at the Pacific Game and will do my best.”

Feedback: sereana.salalo@fijisun.com.fj