Three talented female footballers from Fiji—Adi Lita Bakaniceva, Maria Veronica, and Caroline Qalivere—are seizing an exciting opportunity in New Zealand as they join Eastern Suburbs AFC in Auckland for a two-week high-performance attachment under the OFC Player Placement Program. This initiative aims to enhance the skills and experiences of Pacific players by exposing them to advanced coaching methods and a competitive environment.
Bakaniceva and Veronica, both seasoned players, have represented Rewa Women’s and have previously played for Hekari Women’s FC in Papua New Guinea, gaining valuable international club experience last year. Qalivere, a defender from Lautoka Women’s and the youngest of the group, has already showcased her talent by representing Fiji at the age-grade level and competing alongside senior teammates at the FIFA U20 Women’s World Cup.
The training sessions and matches planned during their time with Eastern Suburbs AFC will provide these athletes with an invaluable opportunity to refine their skills and prepare for future challenges in their football journeys. Following this performance-centric attachment, the trio will travel to Papua New Guinea to join the Fiji women’s national team for the Prime Ministers Cup tournament.
This program highlights the Fiji Football Association’s commitment to bridging the gap between domestic levels and international play, offering Pacific players practical experience in professional environments. The positive implications extend beyond the players involved, signaling a bright future for women’s football in Fiji.
Adding to the momentum, recent accomplishments by other female footballers from Fiji, including Bakaniceva and Veronica’s signing with Hekari FC, reflect a growing recognition of Fijian talent on international stages. These milestones inspire future generations of female athletes in Fiji, fostering a hopeful outlook for women’s sports in the region. With ongoing support and development, the prospects for aspiring female footballers in Fiji appear increasingly promising.