Fiji Sevens Rugby Captain Raijieli Daveua’s Journey to Success in Rugby

In the realm of sports, Fiji‘s national sevens rugby team captain Raijieli Daveua has risen to prominence through her remarkable journey in the sport.

Eight years ago, Daveua made a pivotal decision to switch from netball to rugby, seeking more opportunities to explore the world.

Her tenacious spirit and dedication have seen her achieve significant milestones, including winning a bronze medal at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics and a silver at the 2022 Commonwealth Games.

This week, Daveua returns to the vibrant city of Singapore to participate in the prestigious HSBC SVNS Singapore tournament, a momentous occasion as the women’s competition makes its inaugural appearance.

Over the years, rugby has taken Daveua across continents, from Europe to Asia and the Pacific, allowing her to experience diverse cultures and create lifelong connections.

Among the myriad of nations Daveua has visited, Singapore holds a special place in her heart, being the first country she ventured to on her sporting journeys.

Daveua, who also works as a corrections officer, reminisces fondly about her time playing for the Netball Super League side Mission Mannas in Singapore from 2013 to 2014.

Having excelled in both netball and rugby, Daveua credits her family’s unwavering support for empowering her to pursue her athletic dreams.

The seasoned athlete reflects on her career evolution, recalling her nerve-racking Olympic debut at the Rio Games in 2016 and the elation of clinching a bronze medal at the Tokyo Olympics.

Looking ahead, Daveua remains laser-focused on her ultimate goal – securing a podium finish for Fiji at the Paris Olympics to culminate her illustrious career in rugby.

With her sights set on the upcoming HSBC SVNS series in Madrid and beyond, Daveua’s legacy in the world of rugby is poised to endure, inspiring future generations of athletes.