At just 11 years old, Saru MGM School student Justin Naidu is already showing the determination and discipline of a future football star.
The Year Six student from Lautoka has developed a strong passion for the sport and dreams of one day representing Fiji on the international stage.
Justin’s love for football grew stronger in 2024 when development officers from the Fiji Football Association visited his school to launch the FIFA Football for Schools programme.
Through the programme, students were taught life skills such as respect, teamwork and hard work through football. The visit also inspired Justin after he was selected to join the Lautoka Development Centre.
With support from his father and guidance from regional development officer William Simmons, Justin began working harder in training while setting his sights on bigger goals.
“I was inspired when they showed us the pathway to the FIFA Under-17 World Cup in Qatar.
“I also saw the four Lautoka boys who represented Fiji there and my dream is to play in the FIFA Under-17 World Cup just like them,” he said.
Justin’s dedication has already earned him several achievements in both academics and sports.
In school, he received the Best Disciplined Child award in Year Two and placed third in his class in Year Four. He also participated in a mathematics competition at Saint Vincent College last year.
On the field, Justin was named Junior Soccer Player of the Year at Saru MGM School in 2025 and also received the Best Defender award while representing the Lautoka Under-10 team.
Last season was particularly memorable for the young footballer. Playing in the McDonald’s League and the McDonald’s IDC competitions, Justin helped his team remain unbeaten.
One of his standout moments came during the McDonald’s IDC final when he scored a remarkable goal just 20 seconds after kickoff from near the halfway line, helping his team defeat Nadi 4-3 to claim the Under-10 title.
Justin, who can play as a defender or right midfielder, also scored 18 goals during the Under-10 Talent Identification Tournament and was named Best Player at the 2024 Western Sports Tournament.
Despite his growing success, the young player remains focused on improving his skills.
“I love playing football.
“I need to practice more to reach my goal and listen to my coaches. I want to get better at dribbling and passing and also work on my fitness because I know it’s important to keep up with the game. I also need to balance my studies as well.”
Every morning before heading to school, Justin begins his day with ball mastery drills to sharpen his technique.
He also draws inspiration from Portuguese football superstar Cristiano Ronaldo, whom he admires for his dedication and work ethic.
Justin lives with his parents and grandparents and is the only child in the family.
Looking ahead, he hopes to one day play professional football overseas, possibly in the English Premier League or La Liga, while proudly representing Fiji.
For now, the young Lautoka footballer continues to train hard, dream big and prove that age is no barrier when passion and determination lead the way.
