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Fiji's Rising Handball Stars Ready to Take on the World

From RNZ Pacific · () English

Translated from English, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.

At a glance

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  • A 12-member Fiji U18 women's handball team will be the first Pacific Island nation to compete in the International Handball Federation (IHF) Women's Youth World Championship in Romania.
  • The team faces strong opponents like France, Croatia, and Egypt in Group A, marking a historic achievement for Fiji and Oceania.
  • Despite the landmark accomplishment, the team still faces financial challenges and is seeking sponsorships for airfares, accommodation, and equipment.

A 12-member Fiji Under-18 women's handball team is set to make history as the first Pacific Island nation to compete in the International Handball Federation (IHF) Women's Youth World Championship. The tournament will be held in Romania from July 29 to August 9.

Head of Delegation Lusiana Rokoura described the participation as a landmark achievement for Fiji, women's sports, and the Oceania region. The squad was selected after months of intensive training, with the final team chosen from an initial 22-member national training squad. Fiji will face formidable handball nations France, Croatia, and Egypt in Group A during their debut.

This is much bigger than handball. These young women are making history for Fiji, for Oceania and for every young girl who dreams of representing her country.

— Lusiana RokouraHead of Delegation Lusiana Rokoura highlighted the significance of the team's participation in the World Championship.

Rokoura expressed excitement about the opportunity, stating, "This is much bigger than handball. These young women are making history for Fiji, for Oceania and for every young girl who dreams of representing her country." She emphasized their hard work, determination, and resilience, noting that they have proven they belong on the world stage despite limited resources.

They have earned their place through hard work, determination and resilience. Despite limited resources, they have shown they belong on the world stage and will proudly wear the Fiji flag against some of the world's strongest handball nations.

— Lusiana RokouraRokoura praised the team's dedication and ability to compete at an international level.

However, the team is still grappling with significant financial challenges. Rokoura appealed for assistance from businesses and individuals to cover costs for international airfares, accommodation, competition preparation, equipment, and medical support. Sponsorship is deemed critical for the team's optimal performance. Fiji Handball views this World Championship as a crucial first step toward their aspirations for the Brisbane 2032 Olympic Games, believing a strong performance will bolster their campaign.

Handball was introduced in Fiji in 2016, and the nation became an IHF member in 2017. The U18 team qualified for the world championship after securing third place in the IHF Trophy Oceania last October. A victory against Australia, followed by New Caledonia and New Zealand declining their spots, allowed Fiji to accept the invitation.

The 21-15 victory over Australia was more than just a scoreboard win. It proved that even with limited resources and e

— Sainimili SaukuruPresident Sainimili Saukuru reflected on the team's qualifying win against Australia.
DistantNews Editorial

Originally published by RNZ Pacific in English. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.

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