From being the first Fijian female soldier in the Irish Guards, Manuqalo Noame Komaitai is not only making waves on the rugby field—she’s also breaking barriers in one of the world’s most iconic military units.
Komaitai currently serves in the British Army, and her journey from Fiji to the UK is one of courage, discipline, and a deep-rooted love for the sport as she tries to break into the Vodafone Fijiana XV’s team.
She says despite never playing the game in her youth, she excelled in netball, representing her schools, Suva Grammar and Lelean Memorial School, as a goal attack and goal shooter.
The back rower's introduction to rugby came unexpectedly in 2021 after completing her Phase Two military training in the UK.
Initially playing as a winger, her coach soon recognized her potential in the forwards, where she transitioned to the back row, covering positions 6, 7, and later number 8, a role she has since fallen in love with.
Komaitai says once she moved to the back row, she knew she had found her space.
The 29-year-old says if she had to choose, she would represent her country first, and playing for Fiji would be an honour.
Komatai is a shining example of what it means to lead with resilience and purpose.
Whether she is standing guard at Buckingham Palace or charging down a rugby pitch, she represents the strength of Fijian women—fearless, determined, and proud.
She is the younger sister of the former Fijiana 15s winger, Alisi Komaitai.
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