BULA FC has welcomed three promising new talents to its lineup: midfielder Ryan Naresh, 17-year-old Melvin Prakash, and Labasa striker Christopher Wasasala.
Ryan Naresh, a promising midfielder, comes from a footballing family, with his father Rinal Naresh and brother Rahul Naresh having also made their marks in the sport. After progressing through various youth levels, Ryan has made his debut with the senior men’s Ba football team at just 17 years old. “This means a lot to me. It’s my first big step, and I just want to make everyone proud—my family, the people of Ba, everyone who believed in me. This is a big opportunity to make something out of football, and I’m ready for it,” he expressed, highlighting his determination to excel in his football career. While Ryan is passionate about the sport, he also has aspirations of studying Electrical Engineering at the University of the South Pacific.
Melvin Prakash is heralded as one of Fiji’s most promising young goalkeepers. He began his journey in football at a young age, quickly distinguishing himself in school competitions. His talent was further developed through the Fiji Football Association’s Academy program, leading to his selection for the national under-15 trials. Earlier this year, he showcased his skills as the first-choice goalkeeper for Fiji at the FIFA U17 World Cup in Qatar. “It feels good to be part of something big… believe in the Lord before you believe in yourself, and everything will be okay,” he shared, taking a significant step towards a professional football career, motivated by the support of his brother, Jese Tuicama, and his mother.
Christopher Wasasala, who hails from Macuata, is eager to embark on this new chapter of his football journey. “It has always been my dream to become a professional. People have always known me as a Labasa player, but this contract gives me the chance to take a bigger step in my career,” he stated. His drive is fueled by the inspiration of his late uncle, Simon ‘Maradona’ Peters, who played a notable role in Labasa’s history, winning their first IDC title in 1992 along with several other triumphs.
BULA FC is poised to benefit from the energy and dedication of these young players as they seek to strengthen their team for the future. The addition of these talents not only enhances the roster but also signifies a commitment to nurturing homegrown players who have the potential to shine on both local and international stages.
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