It is with profound sadness that Fiji Netball acknowledges the tragic loss of former Fiji Pearl and former Pearls Head Coach, Unaisi Rokoura following a drowning incident over the weekend.
Una as she was fondly known was one of Fiji’s most accomplished and respected players having first represented Fiji in netball at just 17 years old. Una would go on to have an illustrious international career, representing Fiji in six Pacific Games, two Commonwealth Games, and two Netball World Championships. She also captained the Fiji National Netball Team (the Fiji Pearls) from 1997 to 2006.
A true multi-sport athlete, Una also represented Fiji in Hockey, Rugby 15s, Basketball, and Beach Volleyball, a feat which showcased her extraordinary versatility and commitment to sport.
Her contribution to netball extended well beyond her playing career where she held numerous leadership and development roles, including:
• Fiji Netball Association
o 2009–2013: Fiji Pearls Head Coach
o 2017–2022: Country Coordinator, NetGO Fiji
o 2022–2024: Fiji Pearls Head Coach
• Netball PNG
o 2015–2017: Head Coach, PNG Pepes
o Consultant Coach, PNG U21 Team
• University of the South Pacific
o 2007–2014: Fitness Instructor at the USP Gym
At the club level, she served as Coach and Player for CBM Netball Club under the Suva Netball Association putting a lot of effort into the development of young athletes.
Fiji Netball President Mrs. RubyAnn Sorovaki said: “We are heartbroken by this tragic loss. Una was not only a remarkable athlete and coach but also a mentor and friend to many. Many of us will now be reminiscing and sharing the different journey’s and experiences we shared with this great friend and sportsperson. Her legacy in Fijian and Pacific sport will live on through the many players and colleagues she influenced.”
Fiji Netball extends its deepest condolences to her dad Mr Tomu Rokoura, her brother Aseri and her sister-in-law Lusi and her nieces and nephews, her extended family, friends, her former teammates and former coaches and the wider sporting community.
Her impact on and off the court will be remembered with immense respect and gratitude.
