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Lynda Rabeni-Vatuloka, daughter of former Flying Fijian Seru Rabeni (right) and her Fijian team mate Levonah Motuliki. [Photo Supplied]<\/p>\n
The rise of girls\u2019 rugby shows no signs of slowing down, and New Zealand Under 18 rep Lynda Rabeni Vatuloka is one of the young stars leading the charge.<\/p>\n
Fresh from an impressive campaign at the 2025 Global Youth 7s, Vatuloka has witnessed first-hand the talent and passion emerging across the women\u2019s game.<\/p>\n
She says the tournament not only highlights elite skill on the field but also showcased the camaraderie and support shared among players from different nations.<\/p>\n
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\u201cThere\u2019s so much talent with girls in rugby. Watching teams from Fiji, Australia and New Zealand shows how much skill, teamwork, and art girls bring to the game. I really hope it continues to grow, and I\u2019d love to see it expand in Fiji as well.\u201d<\/p>\n
Her tournament highlights included a thrilling pool clash against Fiji, where intensity met good-natured rivalry.<\/p>\n
\u201cEvery time you see the Fijians, it\u2019s an intense game with all the offloads. But they\u2019re always cheering, no matter what happens. That support really made the games special.\u201d<\/p>\n
New Zealand went on to dominate the semi-final against Japan, taking a 19-0 lead into halftime, while the crowd\u2014energized by Fijian players scattered throughout the stands\u2014added to the atmosphere.<\/p>\n
\u201cAfter a kick-off, I heard, \u2018If you\u2019re tired, don\u2019t be tired, Laura,\u2019. It was funny, but it showed the amazing camaraderie between teams.\u201d<\/p>\n
For Vatuloka, the tournament reinforced the exciting future of girls\u2019 rugby and she believes its in good hands.<\/p>\n
Meanwhile, NZ girls and boys under 18 clinched the titles in the tournament that wrapped up last week.<\/p>\n
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