12 young Fijian women are preparing to carry the nations hopes on the international stage as they compete at the International Handball Federation (IHF) Womens Youth World Championship in Romania.
The Fiji Under-18 girls handball team will make history when they take part in the global tournament, facing some of the worlds top young handball nations in the group stage.
Fiji will begin its campaign against France on Wednesday, July 29, before facing Croatia on Thursday, July 30. The team will then complete its group-stage matches against Egypt on Saturday, August 1.
The young athletes have been working hard in preparation for the challenge and are determined to represent Fiji with pride against established handball nations.
Their journey to Romania has received a significant boost through support from the Office of the Prime Minister and the Chinese Embassy in Fiji, with funding assistance helping the team meet preparation and participation costs.
The support has been welcomed as a major contribution towards ensuring the players and officials can take part in Fijis first appearance at the prestigious international competition.