Labasa recently held a poignant farewell for one of its notable figures, former national soccer representative and 1963 Pacific Games silver medalist, David Simon Simmons. The ceremony, attended by his two surviving sisters, Sylvia and Emilie, along with close family and friends, commemorated the life of a man whose influence extended beyond his hometown, where he developed his soccer skills and achieved success in multiple local sports.
Younger generations of Fijians may not recognize David’s name, but for soccer enthusiasts from the 1960s and 1970s, it sparks vivid memories and excitement. As a reporter with family ties to David, I discovered the significant impact he had on various communities in a very different Fiji of the past.
“Sports in Fiji at that time were deeply rooted in racial biases,” recalled Jope Balawanilotu, David’s brother-in-law and a former sports journalist. He elaborated on how exclusive clubs, such as the Suva European Rugby Union and the Fiji Indian Football Association, restricted participation based on racial identity. Although David was a talented soccer player, he was unable to join the FIFA club due to his part-European heritage. Consequently, he registered under the name David Zoing, taking his sister’s married surname, to compete in soccer leagues in Labasa and later in Suva when he worked for Marlows Ltd.
His talents eventually led to him being considered for the national team for the South Pacific Games. However, administrative complications arose because “Zoing” was not listed on his birth certificate. This prompted the Fiji Indian Football Association to hold a special general meeting to change its name to the Fiji Football Association, paving the way for a more inclusive soccer environment in the country.
Jope recounted a significant memory from the 1963 Pacific Games final, where Fiji faced New Caledonia. Despite losing 9-2, David’s performance on the field left a lasting impression. “At nine years old, I learned a lot about loss, injustice, and the pain of competition that day,” Jope noted.
Documented accounts confirm that the Fiji Football Association was established as a multiracial body in 1961, allowing Fiji to participate in its first South Pacific Games held in Suva in 1963. This change opened doors for various teams, such as Ba, which soon welcomed players from diverse backgrounds.
Soccer enthusiast Ronald Chaudhary pointed out that many who watched David played compared him to the legendary Maradona. Known for his exceptional dribbling skills and artistry on the field, David was a spectacle for fans. Sylvester Joseph, a former player, recounted how witnessing David’s remarkable goal against New Caledonia remains etched in his memory. He cherished the experience of playing alongside David during the finals of the first Independent Cup in 1970.
David’s athletic prowess extended beyond soccer; he also excelled in rugby, boxing, hockey, table tennis, golf, and more. Fellow sports figures acknowledged his exceptional multi-sport talent and dribbling skills, with fans recalling his impact on the game during their youth.
As time went on, David transitioned to less physically demanding activities and moved to Australia in 1973 to take up golf. He maintained a strong bond with his family back in Fiji, frequently visiting his mother, the late Matelita Simmons.
Emilie, his sister, described him as a strict yet protective brother. Following his migration, he became an accomplished golfer and continued to play until health issues arose in 2012. Emilie cared for him during his struggle with dementia, cherishing moments of recognition he occasionally showed despite the disease’s progression.
David Simmons passed away peacefully at Blacktown Hospital in Sydney, surrounded by his loved ones, at the age of 83. His legacy as a soccer icon and beloved family member leaves an indelible mark on those who knew him.