Anginesh Prasad, a respected local coach known as AJ, has achieved a significant milestone by winning a tournament title with the Labasa Football Association, fulfilling a long-standing wish of his late father-in-law. Prasad took on the role of Technical Advisor for Labasa during the 2024 FMF Inter District Championship (IDC) and collaborated with Coach Ravneel Pratap to lead the team, the Babasiga Lions, to victory against Navua at Churchill Park in Lautoka last month.
In an interview, Prasad reflected on how this victory was particularly meaningful, noting that it was dedicated to his late father-in-law, Kamla Prasad, who had always encouraged him to help Labasa secure a tournament win. “It’s a fulfilled wish,” he said, adding he felt certain his father-in-law would be proud of the achievement from above.
Prasad expressed gratitude towards Labasa’s President, Rayaz, for the opportunity to assist the team and acknowledged the hard work of the players and officials in achieving this triumph. He emphasized the importance of dedicating oneself to coaching, stating, “Whichever district approaches us, we have to help them.”
The game plan for the tournament was clear: win the first two group matches, which they successfully did. Prasad shared that they rested yellow carded players for the match against Navua, focusing on preparation for the knockout stages, where the semifinal and final were particularly challenging. His team excelled in the pressure of the penalty shootout in the final match, demonstrating composure and focus.
With this achievement under his belt, AJ plans to take a break from coaching but remains open to future opportunities in the sport. “As a passionate football lover, I will not shy away from stepping in and helping any team that needs my expertise,” he affirmed.
This victory not only cements Prasad’s legacy but also serves as an inspiration to others who aim to honor family legacies through their pursuits. The win showcases the power of commitment and teamwork, reaffirming that dedication often brings rewarding results. Labasa Football Association’s success reflects the strength of community and shared dreams within sports, fostering hope for even greater achievements in the future.
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