Just two years ago, Naomi Tegu Sivoi was a typical student at Richmond Methodist High School in Kadavu, with minimal experience in rugby league. However, everything changed following a transformative rugby league development clinic hosted at her school in 2023. Today, Sivoi’s remarkable journey has led her to become a member of the historic Fiji Bulikula team, which has qualified for the Rugby League World Cup for the very first time.
Sivoi made her international debut in the team’s opening match against Canada during the IRL World Series, where she demonstrated her skills by contributing to a resounding 62-4 victory over Nigeria, scoring a try in the final match. Her pathway to joining the Bulikula team began shortly after that pivotal clinic, as she made the decision to transfer to Mahatma Gandhi Memorial High School in Suva to further nurture her passion for rugby league. There, she enrolled in the Rise Rookie Girls Program, an initiative aimed at empowering young women in the sport.
In 2024, Sivoi marked her entry into the FNRLW competition with the Lami Steelers before moving on to the USP Raiders this year. Her impressive skills also led to her selection as one of five local players for the Invitational Rising League Talent Program in Australia earlier this year. It was during this program that she caught the eye of the Bulikula coaching staff, ultimately securing her place in the national squad.
Sivoi’s incredible journey mirrors the broader growth of women’s rugby in Fiji, highlighting the increasing support and recognition for female athletes. Her story serves as a powerful testament to the potential that emerges when young women are given the opportunity to chase their dreams in sports. As the Fiji Bulikula team aims to make an impact on the global stage, Sivoi’s achievements stand as a beacon of hope and inspiration for future generations of female rugby players in Fiji and beyond. With exciting challenges ahead, the team not only represents their nation but epitomizes the progress being made in women’s sports throughout the region.