The Fiji Football Association (Fiji FA) is delighted to announce that two of our exceptional senior footballers, Cema Nasau and captain Sofi Deyalowai, from the DIGICEL Fiji National Women’s team, are currently on trial at Orlando Pride in Orlando, Florida, United States.
Orlando Pride competes at the highest level of women’s football in the USA, the National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL). Orlando Pride, has recognised the outstanding talents and dedication of Cema and Sofi during their performances at the OFC Women’s Nations Cup and Australia Tour last year, leading them to a three-week trial period with the club.
Cema, representing Ba FC, and Sofi, hailing from Labasa FC, have been remarkable representatives of Fiji on the international stage, capturing the attention of Orlando Pride and paving the way for a significant milestone in their football careers. The duo’s trial journey has been a whirlwind of discoveries, challenges, and growth, with the final leg of this transformative experience eagerly anticipated as they conclude this weekend.
The Fiji FA President, Rajesh Patel, expressed immense pride in their achievements, highlighting Fiji’s progress in global football. “Fiji FA is very proud of Cema and Sofi for earning this great opportunity with Orlando Pride. Their achievement showcases the natural talent in Fiji, which can be nurtured and honed to shine on the international football stage.”
“Fiji FA remains committed to seeking opportunities abroad for our players to grow and excel in their football careers. We are thrilled to announce that three more of our national team players will seize the opportunity to go on trial with the Wellington Phoenix Football Club, the sole professional club in Oceania. This chance further exemplifies our commitment to nurturing and showcasing our talented players on the international stage.”
Haley Carter, Vice President, and General Manager of Orlando Pride, praised the two young footballers, saying, “I was able to observe the Fiji Women’s National Team friendly against the Philippines. I also stopped in Fiji on my way home to the U.S and was able to watch several of the Digicel Women’s Super League matches. My time spent watching matches in person, coupled with their performances at the OFC Nations Cup, made it clear Cema and Sofi both possess the physicality and technical prowess to earn a professional contract outside of Fiji.”
“I am especially proud of Cema and Sofi for their willingness to put themselves in a new environment, in the middle of a professional season with players who they don’t know, and their ability to settle in and quickly become a part of our team dynamic and locker room.”
Sofi said, “being on this international stage has been an incredible honour. “I’ve learned a lot during this trial period. I love their style of play, and the quick reactions and flexibility during training have been truly inspiring.”
“The exposure and challenges I’ve faced during this trial have been invaluable for my growth as a player. I am grateful to Orlando Pride for giving me this chance to showcase my skills and to inspire young footballers back home in Fiji.”
Cema, equally thrilled with the trial experience, added, “Being part of Orlando Pride has been a dream come true. I am grateful for the opportunity to learn from top-notch players and coaches, and I’m eager to continue pushing myself to new heights.”
Carter expressed her gratitude for former Digicel Fiji National Women’s coach Lisa Cole’s role in making this trial opportunity possible.
“Lisa was critical to making this trial a reality for our club and for Cema and Sofi. Without her influence and persistence to fight for opportunities like this, they simply don’t happen. Lisa’s credibility in the professional and international women’s game and her passion around ensuring athletes from smaller markets have opportunities and access are second to none.”
The trials were made possible through support from the Oceania Football Confederation and FIFA’s Women’s Grant.
After their return to Fiji, Nasau and Diyalowai plan to share their experiences and insights with aspiring footballers to elevate talent and preparedness in Fiji’s football community.
Cema and Sofi are set to take part in an exciting series of public events and panels next week as part of the FIFA Women’s World Cup festival in Fiji. During this festival, they will have the wonderful opportunity to meet and interact with the public while sharing their invaluable experiences. The events will be held during select quarter-finals, semi-finals, and the grand final screening, which will be taking place across the country.
