Unaisi Rokoura, a distinguished figure in the netball community, tragically drowned over the weekend, leaving a profound impact on Fijian sports. Alumeci Sachs, president of the Suva Netball Association, fondly remembered Rokoura as a humble and passionate woman whose dedication to netball inspired countless players and coaches.
Sachs expressed that working alongside Rokoura was both a privilege and an inspiration. She emphasized how Rokoura’s commitment to mentoring local coaches greatly enhanced the level of netball in Fiji. “She will be remembered not just as one of Fiji’s finest coaches and mentors, but as a woman whose legacy lives on in every player and coach she inspired,” Sachs stated.
Known for her composed demeanor and unwavering commitment to lifting coaching standards, Rokoura’s influence was particularly felt from 2007 to 2009 as she collaborated with Sachs while coaching various teams. Her guidance was especially impactful during Sachs’ role as assistant coach for the World Youth U21 national netball team. Sachs highlighted Rokoura’s exceptional leadership qualities, humility, and thorough understanding of the game, describing her as a guiding light within the netball community.
Rokoura’s legacy extends beyond coaching; she served as captain of the Fiji Pearls from 1997 to 2006, participating in six Pacific Games, two Commonwealth Games, and two Netball World Championships. After her playing days, she transitioned into coaching and administration, serving as head coach for the Fiji Pearls from 2009 to 2013 and again from 2022 to 2024. Her influence also reached the regional level as she coached the Papua New Guinea Pepes from 2015 to 2017.
The announcement of Rokoura’s tragic passing has prompted an outpouring of tributes within the sporting community, including from Fiji Netball, which mourned the loss of such a cherished individual. The organization acknowledged her extraordinary achievements and the enduring legacy she leaves as a mentor and friend to many.
Rokoura’s contributions to sports and her role in promoting sportsmanship resonate deeply with those who knew her. Her untimely death serves as a crucial reminder of the importance of water safety, with community leaders emphasizing the need for increased vigilance during recreational activities.
As the netball community unites to honor the memory of this remarkable individual, they are also inspired by the values of mentorship, kindness, and resilience she embodied throughout her life. Unaisi Rokoura’s enduring spirit will continue to motivate athletes for generations to come, cementing a legacy of dedication and a deep love for the sport that will never fade.