Dravuni Hopes for More Government Support in Future Deaf Games

Team Fiji Deaf women's sevens rugby top try scorer Koleta Dravuni returned home on Wednesday with an eight-medal haul following her sterling performance at the Australia Deaf Games.

Dravuni along with the men's sevens side created history by claiming the 7s gold medals at the 20-sport ADF 2024 held at the cities of Newcastle and Lake Macquarie, New South Wales from January 13-20.

Dravuni, who hails from Sawanikula, Naitasiri, scooped the best athlete award along with four gold medals (sevens rugby, women singles table tennis, women doubles table tennis and mixed double table tennis) and four silver medals (women 100 metres, women long jump, women's touch rugby and mixed touch rugby).

"I just hope there would be more Government support for future tournament participation like this," Dravuni said.

Minister for Youth and Sports Jese Saukuru {third sitting from left), and sevens maestro Waisale Serevi with members of the Team Fiji Deaf contingent at the Novotel Hotel, Nadi on January 24, 2024. Photo: Waisea Nasokia

Men's sevens top try scorer Nasoni Nawanawailagi said it was an eyeopener competing against the best Australian and New Zealand deaf athletes.

"There were a lot of challenges, our opponents were better prepared and more exposed but we did give our all there," Nawanawailagi said.

"I want to represent Fiji more o f ten.

Our victory symbolises the potential and ability of persons with disabilities.

"We need to be supported equally, be given opportunities to represented Fiji."

Nawanawailagi also won gold in the men's long jump, silver in the men's 200m.

Fiji also won three silver medals in the men's, women's and mixed touch rugby but missed out on netball.

Fiji was the only team from the South Pacific that took part; they brought back 12 medals - six gold and six silver.

Head coach Tevita Rokoqiqi said: "The team's achievements would open doors for many more opportunities for the Fiji Deaf Sports Association to collaborate closely with the Fiji Government for support in participating in future international sports events."

The Minister for Youth and Sports, Jese Sukuru, hosted the 36-member team to a welcome reception dinner at the Novotel Hotel in Nadi.

He told them: "You have etched your names in history by securing the first-ever gold medals at the Australian Deaf Games.Your dedication, skills, and unwavering spirit have made Fiji proud.

He urged the athletes to share their experiences and inspire others to pursue their dreams.

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