Fijiana 7s winger shines for Nadi in ANZ Marama Championship and shares first international experience.

An invite to a rugby training session two years ago birthed a love for the sport for Fiji Airways Fijiana 7s winger Meredani Qoro.

Qoro stood out in the third round of the ANZ Marama Championship as she scored two tries for her Nadi Under-19 side to record a 20-5 victory against Tailevu.

The youngster made her international debut earlier this year at the Vancouver 7s after being sighted by Fiji Airways Head Coach Saiasi Fuli while playing for the Lilian Amazons team in a local tournament.

Once a sprinter for Saint Thomas High School in Lautoka, Qoro’s transition into rugby came as a surprise for her family.

She said, “I was just at home when a friend of mine invited me to train with them, I had little knowledge about rugby but now I am playing for a national team, through hard work.”

“My family did not approve of me playing rugby at first, they wanted me to continue running, but I chose to follow my heart.”

The 18-year-old left school to pursue a rugby dream which she is currently living.

“I did not expect to join the national team this quickly, but I am thankful for the opportunity, and now I can showcase my talent.”

Qoro shared her experience of traveling to Canada for the first time.

“Apart from being able to play overseas, it was the first time for me to see the snow too, that was my best experience,” she said.

“Playing against international teams was a bit different, they play fast rugby which was something I had to get used to. But all in all, I enjoyed my first international experience,” Qoro added.

The Namaka in Nadi lass dedicates all her achievements to her late father.

“My dad passed away last year, and I only wish he was here to see where I am today. All my achievements are dedicated to him,” she said.

Qoro is currently in camp with the Fiji 7s side, hoping for another call-up to the upcoming Toulouse 7s next month.

Meanwhile, the ANZ Marama Championship continues this week at Prince Charles Park in Nadi.

Looking at the senior division points table, after the third round, the newly promoted Navosa has taken the lead and sits at the top of the ladder with 15 points.

Yasawa and Namosi both recorded two wins and a draw and have 13 points each but are separated on points differences.

Last season’s champion Suva sits at fourth with 10 points after two wins and a 25-17 loss to Navosa.

Nadi and Nadroga have a win and two draws each and sit in fifth and sixth place respectively.

Tailevu and Rewa sit at the bottom of the table and remain winless.

In the Under-19 division, former table leader Yasawa moves to second place with 14 points while Nadi moves on top with an extra point in their bag.

Suva sits in third with 13 points and Nadroga trails in fourth place with 7.

Tailevu and Navosa have a win each and are in fifth and sixth place respectively.

Namosi and Rewa are yet to record a win.