THE Flying Arrows Football Club celebrated a historic milestone on Thursday night at the Ba Town Council Hall, marking 70 years since its establishment.
The club, known for producing talented players and contributing to Ba football, also received new training gear as they prepare for the Ba FC Local League games starting today.
Founded in 1954, Flying Arrows FC has been a key part of football in Ba, providing young players with opportunities to compete and grow. One of its biggest achievements came in 2008 when it became the only Fijian club to play at the Danone Nations Cup in France.
Over the years, the club has also participated in tournaments in Denmark and Samoa. More recently, in December 2024, they competed in the Fiji Football Cecil’s National Regional Club Championship.
During the event, Minister for Youth and Sports Jese Saukuru praised the club’s contribution to football development and community engagement. He encouraged players to stay dedicated to their training and highlighted the importance of discipline and perseverance in sports.
“70 ago the Flying Arrows Fiji was founded with a visionary mission to provide young footballers with opportunities to engage in competitive football and aspire to represent our national team, Ba. Over the decades, this club has not only nurtured talent but has also become a beacon of community spirit and resilience,” Saukuru said.
This year, our football landscape is brimming with excitement. The season commenced with the Pillay Garments Champion vs Champion (CVC) series, where the FMF IDC champions, Extra Supermarket Labasa FC, faced the Digicel Fiji Premier League winners, Extra Supermarket Rewa FC. The first leg took place on February 1 at Subrail Park in Labasa, with the return leg on February 9 at Ratu Cakobau Park in Nausori.
The 2025 football season has already kicked off with thrilling competitions.
The Extra sponsored Premier League, running from February to September, featuring top teams like Ba, Labasa, Lautoka, and Rewa. Labasa FC currently leads the table with 10 points.
“Additionally, Fiji will host the 2025 OFC Women’s Nations Cup in July, a major tournament that will bring together eight national teams.
“This event is expected to inspire more young athletes, especially women, to pursue football at a higher level,” Saukuru added.
Saukuru concluded his address reminding players and officials the importance of clubs in shaping young footballers and strengthening local communities.