Balancing Dreams Between a Court and a Field

For Loata Talilevu, the journey to elite sport has been anything but ordinary. Hailing from Semo, Tuva, Nadroga, and proudly claiming her maternal ties to Sanasana Nadroga. Loata has carved a unique path across two of Fiji’s most beloved sports: netball and rugby.

Last year, she proudly donned the Fiji Pearls dress, representing the nation with pride on the international netball stage, including a tour to Australia in February as a wing defence (WD).

Yet, with the netball season now in its off-season, the young lass found herself drawn to a new challenge — the rugby field.

Before moving to netball, Talilevu was also part of the Fijiana RWC training squad in 2022

“I thank the Lord for giving me the opportunity to be part of the Franchise competition,” she says with a bright smile. “It’s given me the chance to stay active, build my fitness, and keep working towards my goals.”

Initially, rugby was a way to stay fit, but it quickly became something more. Now, as a lock and flanker, Loata has been welcomed into the Fiji Rugby space — a step she considers a major milestone in her sporting career.

Graduating from Fiji National University (FNU) with a Diploma in Sports Science has also been a significant asset. “What I learned at FNU really helped me understand my body better, and how to take care of myself as an athlete,” she says. “Balancing rugby and netball aren’t easy, but both sports have helped me build power, agility, and resilience.”

Athleticism runs in her blood. Loata is the cousin of former Flying Fijian Aisea Natoga, and like him, she is determined to make her mark.

Today, whether it’s dodging defenders on the netball court or crashing through tackles on the rugby field, Talilevu stands as a shining example of versatility, commitment, and the endless possibilities that arise when talent meets hard work.

And with her faith as her foundation, the young Nadroga athlete knows that this is just the beginning.

Talilevu will be featuring for Takia in the final match against Bilibili for the Na Soko Women’s Franchise this Thursday at Albert Park ground 3; and the game is expected to kick off at 1.30pm.