FOOTBALL legend Jovilisi Rara, at 51 years old, reflects on the enduring passion for the sport, having played for numerous teams throughout his career.
Hailing from Labasa, Rara embarked on his football journey in 1995 with Suva, a team he dedicated eight memorable years to.
His time with Suva provided him with valuable experience, allowing him to rub shoulders with the best players of his generation.
Recalling the evolution of soccer from his formative years, Rara reminisces about a time when the sport shared the spotlight with rugby and how his passion for the game grew.
“Times has changed during my time playing soccer was big and rugby, I had the passion to play the sport when I was in primary school, so from their it grew,” said Rara.
As he looks back on his time with Suva, Rara cherishes the great memories of winning esteemed competitions like the Fiji Fact and BOG.
“Playing for Suva was a great experience and great memories for me, winning the Fiji Fact and BOG, was big, celebration was big, it’s like we won the world cup.
One of the striking changes Rara observes in the sport is the transformation in training facilities and technology, with modern advancements enhancing the training experience.
“Training and facilities were different all together today we can see everything is modernised, a lot of technology and equipment’s used in training, our time we had nothing sort.”
“At my age at 51-years-old I still train, still coaching and playing club games that the passion I said it will take you through years and years.”
Rara also played for Rewa in 2003, Navua in 2004, Nasinu in 2005-2007, then to Nadi 2008-2009, show the talent this veteran has in the sport.
