Anginesh Prasad, a well-respected local coach, has celebrated a significant milestone by fulfilling a dream of his late father-in-law, Kamla Prasad—leading the Labasa Football Association to victory in the prestigious FMF Inter District Championship (IDC). Known affectionately as AJ in the football community, Prasad joined Labasa’s coaching team earlier this season as a Technical Advisor, where he collaborated with Coach Ravneel Pratap to guide the Babasiga Lions to their remarkable win against Navua at Churchill Park in Lautoka last month.
In an interview, Prasad expressed that this victory was particularly meaningful to him and his family, stating, “Ever since I took up coaching, he had been asking me to help Labasa win a tournament. Unfortunately, it did not happen while he was alive, but I was honored to fulfill his wish.” His passion for the sport and commitment to the team were evident as he reflected on the collective efforts that led to their success.
The win holds special significance as Aj acknowledges the emotional support of his late father-in-law. “I am sure he would be smiling from up above and showering his blessings on the team as he was such a great supporter,” Prasad said. He emphasized the importance of winning the IDC and expressed gratitude to the players, officials, and fans for embracing him into the team, enabling him to contribute his coaching insights.
As for the tournament strategy, Prasad and the coaching staff focused on securing victories in the initial group matches to solidify their position for the knockout rounds. Their tactical decisions paid off, with the team showcasing resilience and skill throughout tough semifinal and final matches, culminating in a dramatic penalty shootout victory over Navua.
With the IDC triumph behind him, Anginesh Prasad, who also serves as Operations Manager at P. Meghji Group of Companies, is contemplating his future in football. He expressed a willingness to assist any team in need of his expertise while remaining undecided about his commitments for the next season.
This victory not only commemorates a personal achievement for Prasad but also brings hope and excitement to the Labasa football community, illustrating the impact of dedication and teamwork. As the team looks forward to future challenges, the spirit of perseverance and community support remains strong, promising a bright outlook for Labasa’s football endeavors.
In summary, Anginesh Prasad’s coaching success with Labasa is a heartfelt tribute to his late father-in-law, showcasing the rich connections between family, community, and sport. This victory serves as an inspiring reminder of how dreams can be realized, fostering hope for the team and its supporters moving forward.
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