Elina Drikibau, 18, Set For World Cup Debut
Drikibau was first drafted into the Fiji Pearls squad three years ago when she was only 15 and playing for the Grasshoppers Club in the Suva Netball Association League.
Tuesday 11 July 2023 | 18:45
Fiji Pearls youngest team member Elina Catherine Drikibau outside the State House on July 10, 2023. Photo: Sereana Salalo
Having a supportive family is the main drive behind the success of Elina Catherine Drikibau’s netball career.
The Suva Grammar School Year 13 student is set for her Netball World Cup debut in Cape Town, South Africa, which will take place from July 28 to August 6.
She is the youngest member of head coach Unaisi Rokoura’s 12-member squad.
Drikibau hails from Toki, Ovalau, Lomaiviti, and shares maternal links to Urone, Vanuabalavu in Lau.
Her parents Emi and Penioni Drikibau are always present at every game since she started playing netball during her primary school days at Veiuto Primary School.
Her mother travelled twice with Drikibau last year after she was selected for an Athlete Immersion Programme and also for the Pacific AusSports series in Australia.
She is the youngest of three siblings.
Drikibau was first drafted into the Fiji Pearls squad three years ago when she was only 15 and playing for the Grasshoppers Club in the Suva Netball Association League.
“One thing behind my netball career for the past years is the support from my family,” she said.
“Sometimes I wanted to quit but they were always behind me. The girls also always push me at training.
Drikibau plays wing and goal attack.
She said that balancing studies and training was one of her major challenges; however she was able to it.
“We have three training sessions a day so I had to go to school, get out to train and return to school after training.
“I am honoured and privileged to be part of the final 12 to South Africa.
To read more, click on this link to access the full article and details: https://eedition.fijisun.com.fj/subscriptionplans
Story by: sereana.salalo@fijisun.com.fj
