FORMER Ba and national striker Esala Masi believes Fiji Football needs to focus on getting the right people in the right places especially in coaching if the sport is to continue improving and producing world-class players.
Speaking during his recent visit home to Ba for the 2025 FMF Inter-District Championship, Masi said while Fiji Football Association (Fiji FA) has made significant progress in developing the game, more can still be done to strengthen the system.
“I think Fiji FA is doing everything right but there’s still a lot of improvements to be done,” Masi said.
“Honestly, during my time, there was also a lot of development, but one key thing is employing the right people especially in the coaching areas. We see teachers taking majority of the roles, which is not bad, but we also need people who have played the game because they have more passion and knowledge of it.”
Masi, who now lives in Australia with his family, was among the former players inducted into the Fiji FA Legends Club during the IDC; a proud moment he said brought back memories of his early playing days.
“I always feel goosebumps when I walk into Govind Park and I still do. Age is catching up, but it’s a blessing,” he said with a smile.
He also expressed joy at seeing games return to Ba’s home ground after nearly a decade away.
“It’s a good thing for Ba soccer. Having our own ground back boosts the morale of players and the whole community,” Masi added.
On a more serious note, Masi urged young footballers to stay away from drugs and alcohol if they want to have long, successful careers.
“One thing I’ve learned is that if you want to be successful, you cannot mix that life with drugs and drinking. Your career won’t last long, and you won’t realise your full potential.
“Drugs are wrong, and it destroys not just your career but your life,” he concluded.
Masi’s message serves as a reminder that discipline, right mentorship, and true passion are still the foundations of football success.
