Betty Jitoko was a proud mum at the Fiji Sports Council Award Night yesterday. This was after she received the 2009 Sportswoman of the Year on behalf of her daughter, Valerie Nainima. “I am a blessed mum and I’m very proud to have a wonderful daughter like her,” Jitoko said.  An educator by profession, it was always education first - a message she always emphasise to Valerie. When first told of Nainima’s opportunity to play basketball in the United States, her mother was only interested in knowing if the scholarship would cover the cost of her education. According to Nainima, she would rather attend her graduation than watch her play. Yesterday, the proud mother could not hold back her tears as she saluted her daughter.  “I know I have always told her that education comes first but honestly it is sports that has contributed to the person that she is today. “It has moulded her life, her character and her values and sports has taken her to where she is today.” A modest mum, Jitoko acknowledged past coaches, teachers, friends and family members who have helped shaped Valerie’s life. “She is what she is today with the support not only from us or from her coaches but also from her friends and teachers who have helped shaped the person she is now. Thank you.” And she also took the time to thank the Fiji SUN for the publicity they have gave Valerie. “If it was not for the wonderful articles that you have written about Valerie, I don’t think it would come to this. Thank you."

Source: The Sun Online

Saturday 27th February,2010