Nothing but the best will do: Walker
The former Black Ferns XV and Auckland Blues Women coach said it was a privilege to lead Fiji and help drive the growth of the women’s game.
Friday 07 August 2026 | 10:30
Fijiana players during a training session earlier this week, from left, Mereoni Nakesa, Kolora Lomani, Sulita Waisega and Tiana Robanakadavu.
Photo: FRU Media
Vodafone Fijiana XV head coach Willie Walker has challenged the players to produce their best performance when they face South Africa in Saturday’s historic test at Suva’s National Stadium.
Speaking to SUNsports yesterday, the newly appointed coach said the Springbok Women would provide one of Fijiana’s toughest challenges.
“The South Africans are very structured and collision-focused,” Walker said.
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“They have powerful athletes across the park, and we know we have to be at our best to compete this weekend.
“It’s an exciting challenge that allows our players to see where they currently stand on the international stage. I’m really looking forward to that opportunity.”
The former Black Ferns XV and Auckland Blues Women coach said it was a privilege to lead Fiji and help drive the growth of the women’s game.
“I’m hugely honoured to be in this position. I’m looking forward to the challenge ahead and I’m excited about the future of Fijiana rugby,” he said.
“Fiji is a passionate rugby nation, and I want to play my part in helping the team continue to develop and move towards becoming a Tier One nation.”
He said the two- Test series was important for the continued growth of women’s rugby in both Fiji and South Africa.
“It’s really important to build those connections between both nations and continue growing the women’s game. That makes this weekend’s Test, and next week’s, even more special,” Walker added.
