Rishal Shankar, a rising star in the world of football, is successfully juggling his athletic career with academic pursuits at the young age of 17. Known for his remarkable skills on the pitch, Shankar has already made significant contributions to Fiji’s national team; he scored two vital goals during the OFC U16 Championship and represented his country in the prestigious FIFA Men’s U17 World Cup held in Qatar.
However, balancing the demands of rigorous training with school has proven to be a daunting task for this talented student-athlete. Like many young players with national commitments, Shankar finds that competing in regional tournaments can lead to extended absences from school, which disrupts his academic progress. “No, it wasn’t easy, it was very hard,” he acknowledged. “We had to focus on our school work as we usually missed out a lot when we’re training or camping. So no, it wasn’t easy at all.”
Despite these academic challenges, Shankar’s dedication to both football and education has garnered him attention in the sporting community. He was recently invited to try out for Brisbane City FC’s under-18 and under-23 teams, indicating that his efforts are being recognized. Additionally, he is vying for a position on Fiji’s national under-19 team, as preparations begin for the upcoming 2026 OFC Qualifiers.
Shankar’s journey serves as an inspiring example of how passion and determination can pave the way for success in both sports and education. His story highlights the importance of supporting student-athletes as they navigate the complexities of their dual commitments, all while pursuing their dreams on the international stage.
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