The youngest player in the Manusina squad, Upu Talavini hopes to make a name for herself in the upcoming Oceania 7s early next month.

Hailing from Lelepa, Savaii, she told this newspaper that she started her sporting career playing tag rugby. She entered Itu o Tane College and was introduced to rugby union.

"From primary school, we had a tag tournament and I joined and it was the first time I held a rugby ball. When I got to college, there was no tag but we did rugby which was contact like tackles and all. I believe that's where my love for rugby started," she said.

"This is my first time to be selected into the Manusina 7s squad, and I take pride in that. I am humbled and excited for this journey. It is a rare opportunity and I hope I can live up to the expectation. The training is a bit hard but if there is no pain then there is no gain. 

"There is more to learn from the other experienced players who are on my time and I am excited to learn from them as well as our coach."

Upu comes from a family where there are hardly any rugby players. She said perhaps they played in their college years but at the moment she is the only one playing the sport. The 16 years old said she's pushing herself to go beyond her limits and upskill her talent.

"Everything is going well at the moment. What I'm doing now is observing how each of my teammates play and see if there is anything different then try and learn it," she said. 

"The dream or my focus right now is to maintain my talent and stay focused. Being the youngest in the team isn't a challenge for me, I see it as an opportunity to learn from those who have played in this level before. I am hoping for a chance to play, make a name for myself and most of all represent my country on the international stage."

The Principal of Itu o Tane College, Allie Faletolu took to social media to say he was proud of Upu's achievement and selection into the Manusina training squad. He mentioned that he takes pride in his students' success and one of his dreams has come true. He wished Upu Talavini well on her rugby journey and confirmed the 100 per cent support from the school for Upu.