Former Fiji Bulikula captain Josephine Maejiirs is showcasing that age is merely a number as she competes at the McDonalds Fiji Coral Coast 7s at the age of 49. The veteran forward stands out as the oldest participant in this year’s tournament, demonstrating remarkable resilience and athleticism alongside competitors significantly younger than herself.
Still actively involved in the rugby league scene in Australia, Maejiirs currently plays for the Terrigal Sharks in Sydney. She utilizes her participation in rugby sevens as a strategic approach to maintain her fitness levels throughout the year. “For me, coming into sevens is about keeping the engine running,” she explained. “We finish rugby league and step straight into sevens, and then after this I go back into league pre-season. It’s a strategic way to stay fit, mobile, and ready for the next season.”
The Coral Coast 7s is not new territory for Maejiirs, who is participating in her third installment of the tournament. Previously, she has not only played but has also brought her own Sydney-based sevens team to the event. The excitement was palpable as she expressed her eagerness to face quality teams and the unique opportunity to compete against national sides, stating, “When I messaged and said I’ll see you at the Coral Coast, they asked if I was playing or managing. I said, No, I’m actually playing.”
Her team embodies the tournament’s diverse spirit, comprising athletes from the USA, UK, Japan, and Australia, all uniting with a shared ambition. Maejiirs emphasized that they are not simply participants for fun; their goal is to be competitive. “We want to compete. We’re all athletes from different backgrounds, and we want to push for the finals. If the weather plays its part and we come together as a team, we believe we can go far.”
Beyond the competition, Maejiirs aims to inspire women of all ages. She encourages young girls and older women alike, advocating for self-belief and determination. “To young girls and older women, believe in yourself. No one else will do it for you. Carry that belief wherever you go, and with God on your side, it will happen.”
Maejiirs also acknowledges her support system back home, including her Terrigal Sharks family and her children and grandchildren. Her appearance at the Coral Coast 7s not only highlights her enduring dedication to rugby but also serves as a powerful reminder that passion, hard work, and belief can transcend age limitations.
The Coral Coast 7s continues to unfold, with opportunities to catch the live action on FBC Sports.