The Labasa Youth Under-16 team has set its sights on defending the Digicel Fiji U16 Youth League Northern title in the upcoming year. Several players from the squad, including Zaman Shah, Meli Goneva, Tukai Rovonukula, Avichal Lal, and Josaia Natubatilagi, recently participated in the Fiji U16 trials, with Rovonukula, Lal, and Natubatilagi making the final selection.
Tukai Rovonukula, hailing from Tabia and a student at Labasa Sangam (SKM) College, took on the role of team captain. The national team, which included some of these young talents, achieved remarkable success by clinching a victory that secured their qualification for the next FIFA World Cup U17.
During a recent thanksgiving gathering held at Vunivau, Labasa Youth U16 coach Shalendra Swami expressed gratitude to the team’s 30 members, who are representatives from various local schools such as Shri Guru Nanak Khalsa College, All Saints Secondary School, Labasa College, Labasa Sangam (SKM) College, Batinikama College, Labasa Muslim College, and Vunimoli Islamia College. Coach Swami reflected on their competitive year, noting the team played ten matches against local teams such as Nadogo, Savusavu, Seaqaqa, Bua, and Dreketi, achieving an impressive record with eight wins, one draw, and just one loss – all while scoring a total of 68 goals.
Additionally, Zaman Shah received a nomination for the prestigious McDonald’s Elite Player of the Year during the Fiji FA Awards Night for 2024, highlighting the exceptional talent within the squad. Swami, who has been coaching the Labasa Youth U16 team since 2020, is enthusiastic about preparing the players for future competitions and aims to secure another league title next year.
The progress and dedication of this team reflect a promising future for Fiji’s youth football, showcasing their commitment and potential on both local and international stages.
This positive narrative emphasizes the hard work and aspirations of young athletes in the Labasa region, inspiring hope for their continued success and development in the sport.
Leave a comment