“YOU are the heartbeat of the sport.”
This was the acknowledgement expressed by Fiji Football Association’s president, Rajesh Patel to its players, in his Christmas and New Year’s message.
Patel said its players, young and experienced, inspired communities and brought pride to the nation through the delivery of virtuous qualities.
“To our players, both young and experienced, you are the heartbeat of our sport,” Patel expressed.
“Your discipline, perseverance and passion inspire communities and bring pride to our nation.”
In his special message to the sporting body’s devoted stronghold of supporters, stakeholders, districts and clubs, Patel also reflected on the work carried out by them and the invaluable difference it made.
“Your hard work behind the scenes often goes unseen, but it is the foundation upon which Fiji football continues to grow,” he said.
He also emphasised on the key role played by all involved in bringing up football at a grassroots level.
“The past year has reminded us of the unifying power of football. From grassroots programs to club competitions, from our referees and officials to coaches, volutneers, players, administrators, sponsors and passionate supporters – each of you has played a vital role in strengthening the game we all love.”
Patel also thanked all fans and supporters for their continued backing, which he said kept up the mission of driving the association forward.
In concluding his message, he called for the reflection of key Christmas and New Year values such as peace, generosity, unity and compassion to aid in working together in developing the sport and paving the way for new opportunities at the grassroots level.
