Clotilde Baron, a 23-year-old French national with a strong rugby background, has chosen Fiji as her destination to pursue her passion for the sport. Arriving in early December after earning a master’s degree at ESSEC Business School in France, Baron’s decision was heavily influenced by watching many Fijian rugby players thrive in France, which prompted her to learn more about the Pacific island nation and ultimately embark on her journey there.
“I came after graduating from my studies and I wanted to discover Fiji. There are many Fijian players playing in France and I’d always heard about Fiji, so I really wanted to experience the country for myself,” Baron expressed.
She is currently a member of the Sinu Kakala Amazons, competing at the 17th Fiji Bitter Savusavu 7s at Ganilau Park. Taking a year off from her academic pursuits to focus fully on rugby, Baron reached out to the Nasinu Rugby Club, which marked the beginning of her involvement in local women’s rugby.
“I wanted to use this year to improve my rugby, so I contacted the Nasinu Rugby Club manager and he responded. That’s how it all started,” she shared.
Beyond her commitment to rugby, Baron is also committed to giving back to the community. She volunteers at the Beacon Learning Center in Nasinu, where she teaches French and tennis. One of her most cherished experiences in Fiji has been participating in devotion sessions and singing worship songs, which she described as profoundly meaningful to her Catholic faith.
“I’m Catholic, so that really means a lot to me. It makes me realize that what we do is not just for the team, but for God, and that there is something bigger that unites everyone,” Baron said.
Baron’s journey in Fiji reflects not just her passion for rugby, but also a deep engagement with the culture and community, making her experience in this beautiful island nation both enriching and impactful.