ALVIN Chand has stepped down as head coach of Extra Supermarket Labasa FC, bringing an impressive tenure with the Babasiga Lions to an end.
The Labasa Football Association confirmed Chand’s resignation through its official Facebook page, citing personal reasons and ongoing work commitments.
“The association would like to place on record its sincere appreciation to Alvin for his dedication, commitment and service to Labasa FC during his time as head coach,” the association stated.
“His contribution to the team and the wider Labasa football family is greatly valued, and we thank him for his efforts and professionalism.
“We respect Alvin’s decision and wish him every success and happiness in his future commitments. He will always be a valued part of the Labasa football family.”
Chand was appointed head coach in March 2025 after several years working within the district’s development system, including seven years coaching Labasa’s youth teams.
He made an immediate impact at senior level, guiding the Babasiga Lions to the 2025 BiC Fiji FACT title in his first major tournament in charge.
Labasa defeated Rewa on penalties in the final at the HFC Bank Stadium in Suva to claim its first FACT title in 10 years.
Two months later, Chand delivered another major trophy, guiding Labasa to the 2025 Extra Battle of the Giants title at Subrail Park.
The Babasiga Lions defeated Rewa 2-1 in the final in front of 7643 supporters, securing a memorable victory on home soil.
Under Chand, Labasa also reached the semi-finals of the 2025 FMF Inter-District Championship.
In the 2026 season, he guided the northern side to second place in the Extra Premier League and the semi-finals of the BiC Fiji FACT.
His final assignment came at the 2026 Extra Battle of the Giants at 4R Stadium, Govind Park in Ba, where Labasa was attempting to defend its title.
Labasa defeated Nasinu 1-0 and Navua 2-1 but suffered a 3-0 loss to Suva. Despite winning two of its three pool matches, the Babasiga Lions missed out on a semi-final berth on goal difference.
The schoolteacher remains committed to advancing his coaching career and is close to completing his A Licence Coaching Certificate.
Meanwhile, the Labasa Football Association has appointed Solomon Islands mentor Jerry Sam as the new head coach.
Sam joined Labasa as technical adviser ahead of the 2026 Extra BOG and worked alongside Chand during the tournament.
“The association is also pleased to announce that Jerry Sam has been appointed as the new head coach of Labasa FC,” the statement said.
“We welcome Jerry into his new role and wish him all the very best as he takes on this important responsibility with the Babasiga Lions.”
Chand’s coaching record:
2025 BiC Fiji FACT champion
2025 Extra Battle of the Giants champion
2025 FMF Inter-District Championship – semi-finalist
2026 Extra Premier League – runner-up
