Komaitai wins UK Armed Forces Sportswoman award

British Army Guardsman Manuqalo Komaitai was awarded the United Kingdom Armed Forces (UKAF) Sportswoman of the Year 2025.

The Fijiana XV number 8 made her debut in the white jumper at last year’s Oceania Championship before playing at the Women’s Rugby World Cup in England.

Komaitai is in the country and could not be at the ceremony. She is part of the side at the Oceania Championship; they will face Manusina on Saturday in Ba.

She told Forces News: “I was delighted and honoured just to be nominated, but to win is amazing and so a huge thanks. I’m looking forward to celebrating on my return. I;m very thankful to my unit, my commanding officer, the chain of command".

“2025 was not an easy year for me and comes with a lot of sacrifice and determination.

The Irish Guardsman never played rugby before joining the Army.

She not only starred for her service as the Army; she ran away with the 2025 Inter Service championship.

Komaitai scored a try against also for Fiji, scoring tries in last year’s World Cup.

She was also awarded the Sportswoman of the Year at the 2025 Brisitsh Army Sports Awards.

Feedback: sereana.salalo@fijisun.com.fj