After nearly a decade dedicated to football administration, Anushil Kumar officially steps down today as acting chief executive officer of Extra Bula FC, closing an emotional chapter in a journey that helped shape Fiji’s football landscape.
Kumar, who is expected to take up a leadership role with another sporting organisation, leaves behind a legacy built on passion, sacrifice and the historic rise of Fiji’s first professional football club.
Reflecting on his journey, Kumar said football had become one of the most meaningful parts of his life.
“The journey has honestly been one of the biggest and most meaningful parts of my life,” Kumar said.
“Football shaped me both professionally and personally over almost the past ten years.”
Kumar first joined Fiji FA with what he described as “passion, ambition and a willingness to learn”, eventually growing into one of the country’s respected young sports administrators. In 2024, he was recognised nationally after winning the 2023 Administrator of the Year Award at the Fiji Sports Awards.
But among all his achievements, helping Bula FC secure Fiji’s first ever professional football licence remains closest to his heart.
“One of the proudest chapters of my journey was helping lead the process to secure Fiji’s first ever professional football licence through Bula FC,” he said.
“What started as a vision slowly became reality through the hard work, belief and sacrifices of many people.”
Under his leadership, Bula FC competed in the inaugural OFC Professional League, giving local footballers a pathway into the professional arena.
“Bula FC was never just about football. It was about giving Fiji footballers hope,” Kumar added.
Kumar also took time to acknowledge the people who supported him throughout his football journey.
“I want to sincerely thank Fiji FA President Rajesh Patel, Chief Executive Officer Mohammed Yusuf, Bula FC Chairman Marc McElrath, my colleagues, staff, players, volunteers, sponsors, stakeholders and everyone who shared this journey with me. Their support, trust and belief played a huge part in my journey.”
As he prepares for a new challenge, Kumar leaves with gratitude and pride.
“I leave with a grateful heart because football gave me some of the best years and memories of my life.”
He adds he will do his best in his new role to take the sport to greater heights in future.
