New Fijiana documentary by World Rugby reveals the resilience and evolution of women’s rugby in Fiji

An in-depth documentary has been released by World Rugby on the evolution, resilience and rise of women’s rugby in Fiji.

Since women’s rugby started in Fiji in the 80s, the biggest challenge was for them to be accepted and change the mindset of local supporters towards what they call a male dominant sport in Fiji.

Fijiana flanker, 31-year Akosita Ravato who is also a mother of two boys says women’s rugby was not accepted easily in Fiji.

Asinate Serevi the daughter of sevens maestro Waisale Serevi says women have supported men’s rugby all their lives.

Serevi adds this was not reciprocated when women needed the same level of support.

Fijiana Drua captain, Bitila Tawake says she used to hide from her father about playing rugby or even getting involved with rugby.

Tawake says this narrative has changed and her dad is now her biggest supporter. Tawake also shares that there are so many resilient stories within the Fijiana team.

Meanwhile, six Fijiana 7s players have been named into the Rooster Chicken Fijiana 15s team for the test match against the third-ranked Canada team which is a build-up to the World Cup next month.

Rusila Nagasau, Raijieli Daveua, Lavena Cavuru, Ana Maria Naimasi, Alowesi Nakoci and Sesenieli Donu, are in the matchday team.

Players such as Asinate Serevi, Vitilina Naikore, Bitila Tawake and Merevesi Ofakimalino are in the match-day team as well.

The Fijiana will face Canada at 6 tonight at the HFC Bank Stadium.