Former Ba FC player Shalen Lal fondly recalls his 11-year journey with the club, filled with moments that he will treasure for a lifetime. With an impressive record of making 11 appearances in the Battle of the Giants (BOG), Lal reached six finals and secured five titles during his time with the team. Now 42 years old, Lal is a dedicated teacher at Arya Kanya Pathshala Primary School in Yalalevu, Ba, reflecting on his evolution from a young football enthusiast to a cornerstone player for Ba FC.
One standout memory is his pivotal role in assisting the winning goal during the 2009 BOG final against Lautoka, scored by striker Osea Vakatalesau. Lal credits his success on the field to a steadfast commitment to rigorous fitness training and a disciplined lifestyle. “The level of fitness training back in the day was above the bar, always with our personal training and commitment towards football being our first priority,” he shared, emphasizing the importance of dedication in sports.
This narrative echoes the sentiments of other former Fijian football players who have also reflected on their journeys, such as Shailendra Lal, who reminisced about his achievements with Suva FC in the 1995 season, highlighting the historic wins in various tournaments. These shared memories foster a sense of community pride and illustrate how former players remain connected to their roots in football, inspiring the next generation.
As anticipation builds for upcoming tournaments like the Fiji FACT, the spirit of camaraderie among players, past and present, reinforces the positive impact of Fijian football on society. This legacy of unity and passion for the sport continues to thrive, showcasing the ongoing commitment of players like Lal and others to uplift their communities and inspire young athletes.
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