Former LA Galaxy player Israel Sesay has returned to Fiji to participate in an international development program aimed at nurturing young football talent. The initiative, organized by Riyaz Ali, who has led the International Youth Football Academy (IYFA) for eight years, features professional players from the U.S. conducting training sessions in Fiji.
Sesay, who gained recognition as one of the youngest recruits by LA Galaxy and played alongside football legend David Beckham, will dedicate two weeks to working directly with young players, focusing on enhancing their techniques and tactics.
Ali shared that he and Sesay established a connection during Sesay’s visit to Fiji in 2013, which sparked their mutual interest in football development and led to this collaboration. They aspire to identify local talent and provide pathways for these players to perform on the international stage.
“When Ali asked me to come and help out with the kids, it was a no-brainer for me. I love doing what I do because I’m trying to pass on my knowledge, what I’ve learned playing professionally and from all these big coaches, and help these kids grow,” Sesay stated.
With Sesay’s expertise, the program seeks to boost the skills of Fijian youth and potentially facilitate their pursuit of professional careers in football.