Former Australian football star Luke Wilkshire will be the distinguished chief guest at the Extra Supermarket Fiji Football Association Awards Night, scheduled for December 1 at the Crowne Plaza in Nadi.
Fiji Football Association Chief Executive Officer, Mohammed Yusuf, expressed enthusiasm about Wilkshire’s participation in the event, referring to it as a privilege to host a FIFA Legend. Wilkshire’s impressive international career and his significant contributions to Australian football are poised to motivate the football community in Fiji.
As part of his visit, Wilkshire is set to attend the Flick Hygiene Pacific Cup matches at Churchill Park in Lautoka and will also visit the Fiji Ba Academy. His presence is anticipated to make a positive impact on local football enthusiasts and aspiring players alike.
The Fiji FA Awards Night marks its return after a three-year break and will honor the top talents in Fijian football with 16 awards that recognize outstanding players, teams, officials, and contributors to the sport.
Wilkshire’s illustrious playing career included notable tenures with clubs such as Middlesbrough, Bristol City, FC Twente, Dinamo Moscow, Feyenoord, and Sydney FC, where he celebrated winning the A-League title in the 2017-2018 season. On the international stage, he earned 80 caps for the Socceroos, scoring 8 goals and participated in two FIFA World Cups (2006, 2010), was part of the 2015 AFC Asian Cup-winning team, and represented Australia at the 2004 Athens Olympics.
Since retiring, Wilkshire has successfully transitioned into coaching, earning respect within the Australian football community for his strategic insight, technical skills, and leadership.
The return of the Fiji FA Awards Night and the participation of such an esteemed guest as Wilkshire undoubtedly signifies a bright future for Fijian football, inspiring both current players and the next generation. His involvement could help boost local talent and foster a deeper passion for the sport in the region.
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