Fiji's Under-18 women's handball team is set to make history as it prepares to compete at the International Handball Federation (IHF) Women's Youth World Championship in Romania.
The team's qualification is a landmark achievement, with Fiji becoming the first Pacific Island nation to take part in the tournament.
Those selected for the final squad will carry the hopes of not only Fiji but the entire Pacific region when they take on the world's best young handball talent in the 32-nation championship.
Competition for spots in the final squad is intensifying following the announcement of the extended training squad.
Selectors are expected to confirm the final 16-player team on 22nd June.
Fiji faces a tough challenge in the group stage after being drawn alongside powerhouse nations Croatia, France and Egypt in Pool A.
The tournament will be held from 29th July to 9th August and will also feature defending champions Spain.
While the draw presents a formidable test, simply reaching the World Championship is a remarkable achievement for the sport in Fiji and a testament to the team's hard work and determination.
Fiji and Mexico are the only nations making their debut at this year's tournament, adding further significance to Fiji's historic journey onto the world stage.
