Eswa Nadan, popularly known as “Ninja,” is a respected figure in the local football community of Fiji, having made significant contributions to the sport for over four decades. Recently, he received honorable recognition from the Fiji Football Association as part of their Legends Programme during a ceremony held in Nadi on December 1. Now at 58, Nadan resides in Sydney, Australia, where he runs a successful air-conditioning and refrigeration business.

Nadan’s journey in football began in primary school back in 1977, starting with his memorable performance that led his team to victory in an inter-primary competition. While he initially focused on academics in high school, he often found himself drawn back into football by his friends. He played for the Navo sports club and quickly rose through the ranks, eventually leading his team to success in the senior and premier divisions.

His dedication to the sport intensified when he began training with the Nadi district team, where he trained alongside notable players from Fiji’s football history. In 1987, he made his debut for Nadi, scoring in his first match against Suva, marking the beginning of a remarkable career that included many thrilling moments, such as scoring the winning goal to break Lautoka’s lengthy unbeaten streak.

Despite retiring early from district and national football in 1994 due to injuries, Nadan shifted his focus to coaching, guiding youth teams and contributing to football development in Fiji and Australia. His leadership roles have included coaching the Nadi Youth team and the AuFFI All Stars for the Pacific Cup, where he emphasized uplifting young talent.

Nadan’s commitment extends beyond the pitch; he is passionate about uniting the Fijian community in Australia through football. He views the newly introduced U16 competition in the Pacific Cup as a significant opportunity for youth to showcase their talents and engage their families in football activities, fostering community spirit.

With a supportive family by his side, Nadan’s recent induction into the Legends Programme serves as a powerful reminder of his impact on the sport and his ongoing commitment to the growth of football within the Fijian diaspora. His story exemplifies how sports can serve as a unifying force, inspiring future generations to pursue their dreams both on and off the field.

In summary, Nadan’s journey reflects the blend of passion, dedication, and community spirit that football promotes, and his future efforts aim at nurturing this legacy for the upcoming generations.