Rama try turns heads

By ISAAC LIRI
IF you were watching the ICTSI South Pacific PNG Palais compete at the HSBC World Series Sydney sevens earlier this month, you would know what Fatima Rama is capable, when she gets the ball.
What she did was described as the highlight for the Palais against New Zealand as the 36-year-old beat one of the circuit’s top performers in Michaela Blyde and running 80m to score one of the tries of the tournament.
The Western province woman saw it as a special moment for her and her team, it definitely brought some joy in camp.
“I prayed that morning because I knew we had never scored against New Zealand,” Rama said.
“But this time I had confidence in myself and my teammates and one of the girls told me that I was going to have a great game and I said ‘that’s right girl’.
“It was a must that we scored against them so when we went out there to play it all came naturally.
“I wasn’t expecting it but when I got that ball from Gemma (Schnaubelt) I just ran hard without realising that I went 80m to score and when I heard the announcer, I had tears in my eyes.
“Even though we lost, it was a proud and emotional moment for our team but credit goes to the team because we played as a team.”
The athletic Rama represented the country in soccer before switching codes.
Before making her Palais debut in 2017, she was a member of the national women’s soccer team at the 2015 Pacific Games.
“I just wanted to try a new code that is why I moved to rugby. Everything was new when I switched. I felt nervous but then my confidence grew as I continued to play.
“I came to Port Moresby in 2009 from Western to play basketball but then I switched to soccer in 2010 and in 2012 I made my representative debut.
“Right now, I’m settled and happy as a rugby player so it took me a very long time to find the right sport but here I am. “I’m enjoying my time with the Palais in camp and our main aim now is to qualify for the circuit when we take part in the Hong Kong 7s in April.
As one of the senior players in camp, Rama said nothing baring serious injury would keep her from retirement.
“As long as I’m fit I will continue to play sport,” Rama said.
Rama was also privileged to be part of the Palais’ school engagement earlier this week.
“It was our first time ever to visit schools and make such donations on behalf of our sponsors.
“It’s a good experience and I believe there is more to come in the near future because it motivates us as a team and also inspires young kids.”