Margaret Elbourne and Charlotte Tabadromu shone brightly as key players for the Fiji One women’s hockey team, leading them to a hard-fought 2-1 victory over the Wanderers Goannas at the National Hockey Centre in Suva. This match was part of the Australian Wanderers Tour that featured under-13 and under-14 teams, showcasing the talents of young athletes from both regions.
Despite the Goannas finding the net once through Heidi Rodgers, it was Fiji’s teamwork and the exceptional efforts of Elbourne and Tabadromu that secured the win. Coach Fatima Mario expressed her pride in the team’s perseverance, especially as they navigated a range of injuries throughout the tournament.
“We’ve faced a lot of fatigue in the past few days due to the heat here in Fiji. Our girls are working hard to navigate through their injuries and recover as quickly as possible,” Mario stated. She also highlighted the vital support provided by parents and guardians, emphasizing how their contributions in terms of meals and recovery drinks have helped maintain the players’ performance levels.
Mario noted the positive vibe within the squad, underscoring the developing camaraderie among the members. “The culture has been building up over the last few days. It’s encouraging to see them come together, overcoming mistakes, and uplifting each other—there’s a strong sisterhood forming,” she remarked.
As the team gears up for their final match against the Goannas at 1:30 PM today, there is a palpable sense of momentum and determination to finish the tour on a high note. The journey taken by these young athletes not only highlights their technical abilities but also reflects their evolution as a cohesive unit, promising a hopeful future for women’s hockey in Fiji.