US-based Fiji player returns for Marist 7s

For 19-year-old Vasiti Turagavou, rugby is more than just a sport, it is a family legacy.

Hailing from Drekeniwai in Navatu, Cakaudrove, with maternal ties to Namoli Village in Lautoka, she grew up immersed in the game.

With both her father and grandfather having played rugby, the foundation of her journey was laid long before she first stepped onto the field in high school.

Turagavou has risen rapidly through the ranks and now plays centre for Dartmouth College women’s rugby team in the United States. Her talent and determination have also earned her a place with the USA women’s rugby 7s, where she competed in the HSBC SVNs tournaments in Perth and Singapore.

Despite her growing international success, Turagavou remains deeply connected to her roots.

During a recent visit to Namoli Village, her team presented a traditional sevusevu to the Turaga na i Taukei Vidilo, Ratu Viliame Bouwalu. This was followed by an traditional i-vakamamaca ceremony, formally welcoming her to her grandmother’s village.

They are in the country to compete in this weekend’s Fiji Bitter Marist 7s tournament in Suva.

Turagavou is embracing the opportunity to return home and give back through her presence and message.

Marking International Women’s Month, she encouraged young girls to take up the sport and stay true to its values.

“Rugby is a special sport, especially here in Fiji. Go out there, have fun and play with love and play for each other,” she said.

Raised in a rugby family, she credits those early influences for shaping her mindset.

Turagavou carries not only her own ambitions but also the legacy of those before her proving that for some, rugby truly runs in the blood.