Players alleged of ‘poor treatment’
The players claimed they were only paid $20 as airport allowance on their departure in Nadi.
Saturday 29 March 2025 | 13:00
Members of the Fiji Pearls players under the Suva Netball Association have raised several management and welfare issues.
Six of the 11 players represented Fiji at the PacificAusSports series in Brisbane, Australia, last month where they finished fourth.
In a letter addressed to Netball Fiji president RubyAnn Sorovaki, senior players including co-captain, Kalesi Tawake have claimed unpaid allowances and poor organisation during their 10-day stay.
The players claimed they were only paid $20 as airport allowance on their departure in Nadi and there was none when they left Brisbane.
They also claimed they were promised an allowance of $250 where $150 was paid in cash upfront and were told the balance of $100 would be paid upon the return of playing and traveling kits.
Questions emailed to Sorovaki were not answered when this edition went to press last night.
Other players who have signed the letter include ace shooter Unaisi Rauluni, Josephine Nailumu, Loata Natoga, Elenoa Gukirewa, Cilia Lewatu, Avelina Navue, Susana Rasaubale, Elina Drikibau, Matila Vocea and Reama Verekauta.
The letter alleged that Netball Fiji has consistently instructed players to return merchandise and playing kits after our overseas tours over the past few years.
They are requesting for transparent and experienced management team to be appointed to manage the welfare of the Pearls and Baby Pearls teams.
“After exhausting matches, the players returned to our accommodation to find that no dinner arrangements were in place,” the letter said.
It also alleged that current Netball Fiji administrator Kinisimere Drasuna had accompanied the team as the cook and an official calling shots wherever possible.
“Often, the officials were left to prepare food late at night, and the options were subpar, such as late-night meals and undercooked vegetables.
“This lack of proper nutrition and rest is not only detrimental to the players’ health, but also undermines their performance and morale.
“To make matters worse, the final departure from Australia was greeted with no airport allowance, no lunch, and a long journey home with no provisions.
“This experience must serve as a wake-up call for the urgent need to reform the way you approach the welfare of us athletes. The Fiji Pearls, “we” deserve better than this,” the letter claimed.
The players indicated with the callous attitude and lack of empathy towards the team, they have extended their full support to the 15 district netball presidents in their motion of no confidence in the current NF president and executives.
Meanwhile the Special General Meeting will be held at 12pm today at the Ministry of Youth and Sports Conference Room, Nasoqo House, Suva.
Feedback: sereana.salalo@fijisun.com.fj
