The Nasinu-based defender has been named skipper of the side and, despite her tender years, says she is ready to take on the responsibility.
“It is an honour and privilege to lead the national side at the Pacific Games and I’m looking forward to it,” she says. “I’m still young and have a long way to go in my career. All this experience and exposure will no doubt help me become a good footballer.”
The Fiji men’s team will be led by a more experienced campaigner after veteran goalkeeper Simione Tamanisau was handed the armband by coach Gurjit Singh.
“Simione is a very experienced player and carries a lot of qualities which would be an asset for any side,” Singh says. “He has recently led the Rewa team to many triumphs on the local scene and we are hoping he brings the same success to us.”
While she cannot compete with Tamanisau in the experience stakes, women’s captain Lewasoqevula has represented her country at a major tournament before – the OFC Women’s Nations Cup in Auckland last year. She made her debut in that event as Fiji put in a disappointing showing, finishing bottom of their group with only one point to show for their efforts.
Lewasoqevula will be determined to inspire her charges to a better performance in New Caledonia and will be supported by vice-captains Salote Yaya and Viniana Riwai.
Tamanisau will be backed up by his vice-captain, Fiji’s star New Zealand-based striker Roy Krishna.
“Roy has played in top international competitions before and knows what to expect,” Singh says.
As well as starring for Rewa, Tamanisau travelled to Dubai in the United Arab Emirates last year to compete in the 2010 FIFA Club World Cup for Papua New Guinea side Hekari United, as did fellow Fiji squad members Malakai Tiwa, Tuimasi Manuca, Alvin Singh and Pita Bolaitoga.
The Fiji men begin their Pacific Games campaign against Tahiti on Saturday at Stade Boewa in Boulari while the women meet Tonga on Wednesday at Stade PLGC in Nouméa.
For more on Fiji football go to www.fijifootball.com.fj

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