Elenoa Naimata Hopeful For Perth 7s
I’m thankful for my supporters, my parents and team mates for encouraging me to come back and I’m ready to be part of the series.
Thursday 11 January 2024 | 16:04
Elenoa Naimata (left) during the Fijiana 7s team training session at Bidesi Park, Suva on January 3, 2024. Photo: Sereana Salalo
Pacific Games gold medalist Elenoa Naimata is hopeful for a spot in the Fijiana outfit for the Perth 7s on January 26-28.
Naimata, 24, has been on head coach Saiasi Fuli’s extended squad since last year after having a threeyear break.
That break has brought a lot of positives about her making it possible for her to secure a spot in the next HSBC series leg.
The Nabalasere, Saivou, Ra native acknowledges her parents Ranadi Meri and Penisoni Naimata for their support; that motivated her to return to the national squad.
She shares maternal to Nailuva village also in Ra.
“I’ve been blessed and grateful to be part of this team again,” Naimata said.
“I’m thankful for my supporters, my parents and team mates for encouraging me to come back and I’m ready to be part of the series.
“Three years I was playing for my club, Seahawks, and last year I got recruited in the Navy.
I now have a job and I’m back.”
Returning to training after the festive season was a challenge for Naimata; she had to be cautious with her diet and balance training and work.
“I’m are thankful for the younger players for pushing us and encouraging us to train with them.
“There are many challenges including peer pressure, work and managing your diet; having a job and coming for training is always tough, but thank God I’ve been released to focus on training.
“While I was at home during the break, I was scared to eat certain things because I was looking forward to return and not suffer at training.”
The former St Vincent College student is grateful for senior players including Ana Naimasi who has been a role model at camp.
“I’m setting my goals to go to both; Perth 7s and the Olympic Games, but only time will tell.
“I’m glad to have players like Naimasi, she’s good in both passing and running.
I’ve been seeking her advice and have learnt and gained a lot of skills training alongside her.
“I’m thankful to the coaches for believing in me.”
Naimata had attended the Fiji National University for one year to pursue a Diploma in Sports Science before joining the Seahawks Rugby Club.
Feedback: sereana.salalo@fijisun.com.fj
