The Fiji Football Association (Fiji FA) has made a significant step forward in the development of youth soccer by appointing Ravneel Pratap as the inaugural Head Coach of its newly established Elite Academy in Labasa. Pratap comes with a wealth of experience and respect in Fijian football, holding an OFC B-License and a successful track record with Labasa FC. Additionally, he is a teacher at Labasa Sangam College, which adds an educational dimension to his role at the academy.
In his new position, Pratap expressed enthusiasm about nurturing the talent of young athletes in the academy, emphasizing his dedication to helping them realize their full potential. He views the development of these players not only as a personal responsibility but also as a crucial contribution to Fiji’s soccer landscape.
The establishment of the Elite Academy marks a considerable investment by the Fiji FA into the future of Fijian football. Under the direction of Sunil Kumar, Fiji FA’s Head of Talent Development, and Technical Director Timo Jankowski, the academy has already commenced its programming. Currently, the academy is home to sixteen promising players aged between 14 and 16, all of whom are engaged in a structured training and education program.
This initiative aligns with the broader movement seen in Fijian sports, reminiscent of the parallel developments in rugby, particularly with the Fijian Drua launching similar youth academies to nurture local talent. Both initiatives reflect a commitment to enhancing sporting opportunities for young Fijians, fostering a generation of athletes who can compete at higher levels nationally and internationally.
The dedication of both the Fiji FA and the Fijian Drua to invest in youth development reveals a hopeful future for sports in Fiji, fostering local talent and empowering young athletes to achieve their goals. The establishment of these academies is a beacon of progress, ensuring that the passion for sports continues to thrive in the region.
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