Former FIFA referee Intaz Shah has officially joined the ranks of the Fiji Football Association (Fiji FA) Legends Club as its 85th member, honoring his significant contributions to both local and international football. The induction ceremony took place on Tuesday at the Fiji FA headquarters in Vatuwaqa and was led by Fiji FA chief executive Mohammed Yusuf.
Shah’s football journey began in the 1980s, fueled by a deep passion for the sport that propelled him to success as both a coach and a referee. He earned various coaching certifications, including National Soccer Coaching levels one and two, the Olympic Solidarity Coaching Course, and OFC level two coaching qualifications. His dedication led him to transition into refereeing, and he obtained his FIFA referees badge in 1992.
Throughout his career, Shah officiated many high-profile tournaments, such as FIFA World Cup qualifiers, OFC events, and the South Pacific Games. A landmark achievement in his career occurred in 1997 when he became the first Fijian referee to officiate at a FIFA tournament, the FIFA U20 World Cup held in Malaysia.
After his retirement, Shah continued to influence the sport as an OFC Referees Instructor, participating in elite training courses in New Zealand and London. Although he now resides overseas, Shah remains a strong advocate for Fiji football, inspiring future generations.
His induction into the Fiji FA Legends Club solidifies his legacy as a crucial figure in Fiji football, with his accomplishments continuing to motivate others across the nation.
In summary, Intaz Shah’s journey from passionate player to esteemed referee and coach illustrates the profound impact one individual can have on the sport. His ongoing commitment to Fiji football showcases hope for future growth and inspiration for young athletes looking to follow in his footsteps. This recognition serves not only to honor Shah’s past accomplishments but also to promote the continued development of football in Fiji.
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