FORMER American footballer, Vincent Thomas Lombardi, commonly known as Vince, once wrote; “Winning is not everything, but the will to win is everything.”
With sports nowadays operating like a business, all personnel involved have something in common —— the will to win.
And the charge to victory starts from the top, from the leaders then it trickles down right to the bottom.
Locally, sporting organisations are governed by a group of executives who operate as board members, but the daily operations left in charge of a chief executive officers.
They should have the leadership qualification normally attained academically, the ability to mentor, the ability to negotiate deals, and most importantly the ability to motivate and guide people to become successful.
One of Fiji’s best sports administrators will soon vacate office this week after decades of helping Fiji Football Association.
Bob Kumar, 73, has finally retired from his position after 30 years of faithful service to Fiji FA.
He is the sport’s longest serving CEO, and executive.
In an emotional farewell organised by Fiji FA in Nadi a week ago, Kumar said he would always cherish his wonderful years of serving Fijian football.
“The memories of service to Fiji FA would remain with me throughout my life,” he said.
He thanked the Fiji FA family for giving him the opportunity and the support to diligently carry out his work.
“It has been a long journey. I will always cherish my 30 years of services with Fiji FA and I really enjoyed my time.”
Kumar became the CEO in 2003.
“I am grateful to have contributed to the growth of football in the country.”
He said Fiji’s qualification in the under-20 FIFA World Cup and the national team’s Olympic Games appearance in Rio were his best moments with Fiji FA.
“My best memories with Fiji FA was when the under-20 qualification at the FIFA World Cup in New Zealand and Olympic Games appearance.
“Another highlight of my achievement was when Suva won the Inter-District Championship (IDC) after 21 years. That time I was the Suva Football Association secretary.”
Kumar said there were always criticisms against his work, but they failed to deter him from delivering his best service to Fiji FA.
“We cannot please everyone. We are there for the betterment of football and I was not bothered by critics, in fact they made me to work hard.
“I thank Rajesh Patel, the board members, district officials and those who supported me throughout my service. I thank my wife for her endless support that enabled me to reach this far.”
Fiji FA president Rajesh Patel said Kumar contributed immensely to the growth of Fijian football.
He said Kumar created a history for the sport locally through his loyal service.
“He took time away from his families for more than 29 years to serve Fijian football. This is a feat that none of us will be able to do in our lives. Even me as a president, I don’t want to be there as a president for 29 years. His passion for football in the country helps us keep the sport alive and kicking.
“In total he has spent more than 45 years in the sport as a player and as an administrator.
“On behalf of Fiji FA, we thank Bob for his loyal service.”
Patel, on behalf of Fiji FA, gave Kumar a vehicle as a token of appreciation for his service.
He said Kumar, however, would continue to act as a Fiji FA consultant.
Successor
Kumar’s replacement is no stranger to Fiji FA.
He was a former national team manager.
Mohammed Yusuf replaces Kumar as the new Fiji FA CEO.
The former Nadroga soccer vice-president said he was looking forward to the new challenge and thanked Kumar for his service.
