Narokete misses Women's World Cup to secure job in the Military

For life after rugby, Doreen Narokete had to miss the Women’s Rugby World Cup to join the Republic of Fiji Military Forces (RFMF).

The former Fijiana XV backrower was all smiles last Friday during the RFMF pass-out at the Force Training Group in Nasinu. She was part of the 13-week recruit training programme.

Speaking to SUNsports, Narokete said she had to sacrifice her rugby career for her mother Torika Narokete, who is living in the United States.

“My mum has done a lot for me,” she said.

“When the going gets tough, she always stands by me and support me throughout.”

Narokete hails from the chiefly village of Tavuki in Kadavu with maternal links to Lomaviti.

She is a double international having represented Fiji in touch rugby and rugby union.

Narokete was a key member of the Senirusi Seruvakula coached- Rooster Chicken Fijiana Drua team that won the Super W title for the first time in 2022 and also retained the title in 2023 under coach Inoke Male.

She signed a two-year contract with the Queensland Reds soon after that for the 2024-25 season.

Narokete represented Fiji at the 2019 Touch Rugby World Cup at the age of 16.

Injury crept in throughout the season, sidelining her as she underwent rehab.

Narokete had to overcome personal and financial challenges.

This include being diagnosed of rheumatic heart disease, which almost ended her rugby career. She survived.

“My mother was the only one working in the family. She sacrificed a lot to raise me to where I am today, this is for her,” a teary Narokete said.

The 22-year-old added that despite the hard training she faced during the 13 weeks she had to push through to reach the tape.

“When it was tough, I’d think of my mother and my siblings. They are my world and my fuel to helping me achieve this,” Narokete said.

When asked about whether she will continue her rugby career, she said: “This is one job done, I will now try and balance my work and my career. I am overwhelmed to reach this stage in life, all thanks to God.”

Narokete reiterated her mum’s endless support for her to achieve all her goals in work and sports.

“My mother is my rock, I love you mum,” she added.