Bright future for women’s rugby: Marama

The Royal Tea Ranadi competition has been a pathway to donning the white jumper for many Fijian women.

Northland player Sainimilika Marama has also set her goal to follow suit.

The Tailevu North College (TNC) Year 13 student started playing for Northland two years ago and has been loving every bit of it.

“This competition gives girls a platform to showcase the rugby talent that we have,” Marama said.

“Especially for women in the rural villages who are not often in the limelight.”

Ten students from TNC are part of the Northland squad.

“Training is tough,” she said.

“Women’s rugby is heading to a good place and it shows that anyone can make it to the Drua or national team if you put in the hardwork.”

Northland is part of the Eastern pools with Coastland, Ra, Northern Bulls.

They will take on Ra in round one on Saturday.

Royal Tea Ranadi divisions

Vanua Levu: Cakaudrove, Taveuni, Bua.

Western: Tavua, Vatukoula, Yasawa.

Eastern: Northland, Coastland, Ra, Northern Bulls.

Central: Ovalau, Navosa, Serua, Malolo.

Round 1 fixtures:

Pool A: Bua v Taveuni, Pool B: Yasawa v Vatukoula, Pool C: Northland v Ra, Coastland v Northern Bulls, Pool D: Navosa v Ovalau, Malolo v Serua.