2 February, 2026, 7:51 am Central - 23°C Clouds

Drua’s Noelani Baselala inspired by brother Philip

Drua’s Noelani Baselala inspired by brother Philip

By Navitalai Naivalurua
02/02/2024
17-year-old halfback Noelani Baselala

Having family by your side is what every person needs when aspiring for something and this rings true for 17-year-old Rooster Chicken Fijian Drua Women’s halfback Noelani Baselala who was inspired by her brother, Philip Baselala, to take up rugby as a profession.

Baselala says seeing her brother make his debut for the Swire Shipping Fijian Drua last year was an inspiration for her to make her family proud as well.

She says joining the Fijian Drua Women's team was not easy as she was training with hardworking and talented girls who wanted to be part of the team.

She adds that through the support of the senior players, she was able to get through the challenges.

She also highlighted that rugby was not her main career path as her parents always prioritised education.

Noelani is aiming to complete her Year 13 with flying colours and also maybe play in the Women’s Rugby World Cup next year for the Fijiana 15s side.

She also aims to be part of the Drua Women’s main squad and is looking forward to helping the side win their third Super W title this year.

The Drua Women's team will meet the Reds in their first match on the 17th of March.

FNRL
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