The commitment of the Nadi Muslim Futsal under-15 team has been on full display at the FMF Muslim Futsal IDC tournament, which is now reaching its final day. Comprised of young athletes from local Muslim schools in the Nadi region, the team has demonstrated resilience and dedication in their preparation for this national event over the past fortnight.
Team official Mohammed Ifraaz noted that despite facing challenges such as overlapping examinations, the players persevered, showing up for training every afternoon at the futsal court located at Nadi Muslim College. “I think the boys have given 100 per cent of their commitment; they came (to training) every day,” Ifraaz emphasized. Their preparation seems to have paid off, as they achieved victories in their first two matches against Meigunyah and Valelevu, winning with scores of 2-1 and 1-0, respectively.
Having already secured qualification for the elimination rounds, the team looks forward to their final pool match against Nasinu today. Ifraaz reflected on this being their first competition experience, expressing hope and excitement among the players: “I think they came here to prove something, so we’ll see how it goes.”
The competition, hosted at the Fiji FA Futsal Court in Vatuwaqa, Suva, has featured a total of 25 teams, with a notable increase in participation compared to the previous year, indicating the growing interest in futsal within the community. The tournament includes various divisions, highlighting impressive talents, particularly among the younger teams, and emphasizing the importance of youth engagement in sports.
Parents, guardians, and sponsors, including Sadhai Autos Fiji Limited, have played essential roles by supporting these young athletes, which Ifraaz greatly appreciated. His sentiments resonate with the broader spirit of community involvement in sports, creating an environment where young players can thrive and foster lifelong skills.
As the last day of competition unfolds, the energy and enthusiasm remain high, with future opportunities for these young athletes evident as they participate in such vital sporting events. The success and enjoyment derived from this tournament could inspire a new generation of futsal players in Fiji.
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