Fijian Drua’s Isabella Koi says it’s been a long time coming

Rooster Chicken Fijian Drua Women’s extended squad member Isabella Koi was emotional as she talked about her rugby journey and being where she is today.

The 21-year-old says it has been a long time coming and just when she thought of giving up playing the sport, the doors started to open up for her.

Originally from the Solomon Islands with maternal links to Namuka-i-Lau, Koi was part of the Suva Women’s side in the ANZ Ranadi Cup Competition before joining the Drua.

Koi says this was a dream come true for her and she is grateful for this opportunity as she was able to train alongside most of the players that has helped her on her rugby journey.

The Naval officer says she always asks herself when will the door to bigger opportunities open up to her as she has been training for years and felt she was ready.

She says she was ready to give up at one point but the urge of continuing to train despite the negatives was what drove her to keep pushing.

Koi says she is excited about the new season ahead and she is just looking forward to the opportunities that awaits her and the team.

Meanwhile, the Fijian Drua Women’s first game for the 2025 Super W season will be against the Waratahs on Friday, 28th February in Sydney.