One of the brightest prospects of Athletics Fiji and a rising star of Nadi Football Club, Vishant Reddy has set his sight on excelling in both sports.
When the local athletics season is not in full swing, the 18-year-old switches his running shoes for football boots.
Born and brought up in the interior of Uciwai in Nadi, Reddy’s success is an classic example of how sports brings out one’s true potential.
The Korovuto College Year 13 student won gold in the intermediate boys 800m and 1500m events during the 2022 Coca-Cola Games.
At this year’s event, Reddy continued with his winning performance, taking out the senior boys 1500m and 3000m event.
Playing at right back for Nadi, he has so far played nine matches for the Jetsetters during the 2023 Digicel Fiji Premier League.
While talking to The Fiji Times, he said growing up, football only interested him and looked up to current teammates William Valentine, Ame Votoniu and other renowned Nadi players.
“I did not take part in athletics in primary school, however, Master Kamal Swamy and Master Nilesh Ram, who are both the pillars of my football and athletics journey, groomed me well. Both football and athletics are equally important to me and going forward, I will concentrate on both alongside my studies,” he said.
Reddy said he had been called up to attend the Athletics Fiji trials later this month for the Pacific Games which will be held later this year in the Solomon Islands.
“I am currently training daily for both athletics and football as running helps me in speed and endurance which are important elements in football.”
He said he had been part of the Nadi football team since 2019, however, broke into the starting line-up last year.
“A lot of people doubted my potential and had earlier criticised me saying that I should only concentrate on playing one sport, but I have proven them wrong. I acknowledge my parents, family members and relatives who have always supported me in my sporting journey.”
Reddy said he felt proud of what all he had achieved and encouraged young boys to take part in sports.
