Mere Vocevoce makes Fijiana XV squad for World Cup

Her journey has been paved with tough early morning training sessions, personal sacrifices and moments where only the love for the game kept pushing her forward.

This is the story of Mere Vocevoce, a member of the Vodafone Fijiana XV training squad, who on Saturday night was named in the final team to play at Women’s Rugby World Cup in England from August 22 to September 27.

The 19-year-old hails from Narewa in Nadi with maternal links to Wauosi, Navosa. She is one of the two players who are yet to make their debut for the Fijiana XV. The other is Kelerayani Luvu. 

The strong running winger is the cousin of Fijian Drua and Flying Fijians lock Mesake Vocevoce

Speaking to SUNsports at the Tanoa International in Nadi after the team announcement, Vocevoce admitted it was only through hard work that she was able to make the team.

“During this season, I actually thought of trying to give it a try to make the Fijiana side for the World Cup,” she recalled.

“Now I’m feeling great to be part of the team but my next aim is to make my international debut at the World Cup.” 

Vocevoce was part of the squad to play in the recent Test clash against the United States in Washington DC but missed out in making the Match 23 squad.

“I was part of the 30-member squad, but five of us did not play. I did not lose hope; I kept on working hard. 

“I know that rugby has always been the most loved, played and cheered on sport not just in Fiji but in the whole of the South Pacific. 

“From my humble home and village, now I am proud to be part of this team to take on the world in the international arena.” 

Vocevoce started playing rugby in 2023, for the Lilian Amazon 7s, before she was picked to be part of the Nadi XV that played in the final against Suva in the Marama Cup Championship. 

She re-joined Lilian Amazon during the McDonald’s Coral Coast 7s, where she was identified by the Fijiana 7s selectors. Vocevoce made her debut for the Fijiana 7s team at the 2024 HSBC SVNs in Dubai. 

Words of blessings

Meanwhile, Acting Minister for Youth and Sports Maciu Nalumisa farewelled the team, as they embark on this incredible journey to represent the nation at the Rugby World Cup. 

“You have shown discipline, unity, and an unshakable belief in your abilities,” he said. 

“Ladies, when you step onto that field wearing our national colours, know that you carry the pride of an entire nation on your shoulders. 

“You carry the voices of schoolchildren who dream of following in your footsteps, the cheers of our villages, towns, and cities, and the hopes of all Fijians here and abroad. 

Play with courage. Play with heart. Play for each other. But most importantly, enjoy the game you love. Remember, whether you lift the trophy or not, you have already made history by inspiring a new generation of girls and women to believe that they, too, belong on the world stage. 

Vodafone Fiji sponsorship manager Adriu Vakarau said, “Go forth and show the world the power, skill, and spirit of Fijian women’s rugby. On behalf of your beloved Fiji, travel safe, give your all, and know that we are behind you every step of the way.” 

Fiji Rugby Union acting chief executive officer Koli Sewabu said that as the team departs, blessings, prayers, and unwavering support will surely follow. 

“You are entrusted with a legacy. Let me remind you that the jersey is not yours to, but it is the sacred symbol of our nation, our people and our shared pride,” he said. 

The Fijiana XV is in Pool B alongside Scotland, Wales and Canada. The side takes on Canada on August 24 at 4.30am (FJ time). 

The team departs on Wednesday. 

Women’s World Cup squad

Forwards- Alfreda Fisher (captain), Karalaini Naisewa, Vika Matarugu, Sereseini Vasuturaga, Keleni Marawa, Tiana Robanakadavu, Bitila Tawake, Loraini Senivutu, Selai Naliva, Asinat Serevi, Mereoni Nakesa, Rusila Nagasau, Salaseini Railumu, Nunia Daunimoala, Sulita Waisega, Manuqalo Komaitai, Carletta Yee, Jade Coates. 

Backs- Setaita Railumu, Salanieta Kinita, Salote Nailolo, Verenaisa Ditavutu, Mere Vocevoce, Kelerayani Luvu, Litiana Vueti, Kolora Lomani, Josifini Neihamu, Ema Adivitaloga, Alowesi Nakoci, Repeka Tove, Ilisapeci Delaiwai, Michella’e Stolz.

Head coach: Ioan Cunningham.