The Labasa Youth Under-16 team is determined to defend their title in the Fiji Football Association Digicel Fiji U16 Youth League Northern competition next year. The squad is filled with talent, recently highlighted by five of its members—Zaman Shah, Meli Goneva, Tukai Rovonukula, Avichal Lal, and Josaia Natubatilagi—who participated in the Fiji U16 trials, with Rovonukula, Lal, and Natubatilagi making the cut.
Leading the team is Rovonukula from Tabia, who is also a student at Labasa Sangam (SKM) College. The team is coming off an impressive year, having secured a place in the upcoming FIFA World Cup U17 following their qualification as a national team.
At a recent thanksgiving event in Vunivau, Labasa Youth U16 coach Shalendra Swami expressed his gratitude to the entire 30-member squad. The players come from various 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 reported, “The boys played 10 games against Nadogo, Savusavu, Seaqaqa, Bua, and Dreketi during the year,” where they achieved eight victories, one draw against Seaqaqa, and suffered a single loss to Dreketi. Notably, the team scored an outstanding total of 68 goals this season.
Zaman Shah’s performance has earned him a nomination for the McDonald’s Elite Player of the Year at the upcoming Fiji FA Awards Night 2024. After taking a break, Swami, who has been coaching the team since 2020, is looking forward to continuing his journey with the squad, stating, “My aim is to win next year’s league and prepare more players to play for the national team.”
In summary, the Labasa Youth U16 team is focused on building upon their successes and fostering the next generation of talented footballers while looking forward to another competitive season ahead. Their commitment and impressive track record emphasize the potential for further achievements in the future.
This situation highlights the promising future of youth football in Fiji and the importance of nurturing young talent in sports. The dedication shown by both players and coaching staff could inspire other youth teams across the nation and cultivate a strong football culture.
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