Former national striker Esala Masi is advocating for a comprehensive overhaul in the coaching sector of Fiji Football to enhance the sport and cultivate world-class talent. During his visit to Ba for the 2025 FMF Inter-District Championship, Masi recognized the significant progress made by the Fiji Football Association (Fiji FA) but stressed that more targeted efforts are necessary regarding personnel decisions, particularly in coach selection.
Drawing from his playing experiences, Masi emphasized the importance of appointing coaches with a strong football background rather than relying predominantly on educators. He believes that individuals who have played the game bring a deeper passion and understanding that can significantly contribute to player development.
Now residing in Australia, Masi celebrated a personal achievement as he was inducted into the Fiji FA Legends Club during the tournament, which brought back fond memories of his early career. He expressed his delight at the return of competitive games to Govind Park after nearly a decade, highlighting the crucial role local venues play in uplifting players’ spirits and strengthening community ties in Ba.
Masi also delivered a firm message to young footballers about the perils of drugs and alcohol, warning that such temptations can jeopardize their careers and suppress their potential. He encouraged aspiring athletes to uphold discipline and maintain their focus on their dreams, underscoring that success is built on commitment and a clear vision.
His concerns echo the current initiatives within Fijian football to enhance mentoring and support local talent, a sentiment shared by other football figures such as Roy Krishna. Krishna has similarly urged districts to invest in nurturing homegrown talent to secure the future of the sport. The stories of former players transitioning to coaching roles illustrate a promising outlook for Fiji football.
As the community unites in support of young players, the collective commitment from both past and present athletes offers a hopeful vision for the future of football in Fiji, suggesting exciting opportunities are on the horizon for emerging stars in the sport.