The Labasa Youth Under-16 team is focused on defending their title in the Fiji Football Association (Fiji FA) Digicel Fiji U16 Youth League Northern next year. Several players from the team, including Zaman Shah, Meli Goneva, Tukai Rovonukula, Avichal Lal, and Josaia Natubatilagi, took part in the Fiji U16 trials, with Rovonukula, Lal, and Natubatilagi successfully making the selection.

Captain Tukai Rovonukula, a student at Labasa Sangam (SKM) College and a resident of Tabia, played a pivotal role in leading the team to success. Notably, the national team secured a victory and earned a spot in the upcoming FIFA World Cup U17.

In a recent thanksgiving event held at Vunivau, Labasa Youth U16 coach Shalendra Swami expressed gratitude to the 30-member squad, which included players from various schools, such as Shri Guru Nanak Khalsa College, All Saints Secondary School, Labasa College, and others. The team demonstrated impressive performance throughout the year, playing ten matches against teams from Nadogo, Savusavu, Seaqaqa, Bua, and Dreketi. They achieved eight wins, one draw against Seaqaqa, and one loss to Dreketi, setting a remarkable record of scoring 68 goals.

Zaman Shah stood out during the season by earning a nomination for the McDonald’s Elite Player of the Year at the Fiji FA Awards Night 2024. Coach Swami, who previously coached the squad in 2020 and 2021, has returned this year with a mission to win the league and develop more players for the national team.

This determined focus on building skills and teamwork bodes well for the future of Labasa youth football. With supportive coaching and a committed squad, the prospects for their next season look promising.

Additional comment: This article reflects a positive atmosphere surrounding youth participation in sports in Fiji. The commitment of young athletes and their support systems showcases the importance of sports in fostering talent and building futures.