14-year-old Isoa Baselala is one of the 16 elite players selected who joined the inaugural Fiji FA Academy team at the Labasa Academy yesterday.
This program marks a significant milestone in the Fiji Football Association’s mission to nurture young talent.
Hailing from Kadavu, Baselala’s journey to the academy is a testament to his dedication, talent, and passion for the beautiful game. Known for his skills, discipline, and composure on the field, he quickly caught the attention of scouts during his impressive performances in youth competitions.
For Baselala, joining the Fiji FA Academy is more than an opportunity—it is a dream come true and the first step toward representing Fiji on the international stage.
“I feel honored and excited to be part of the academy,” Baselala shared.
“This is a chance to improve my game and learn from the best coaches in the country.”
Baselala’s love for football began at a young age.
“I started playing football when I was eight years old and joined the Fiji FA grassroots development program in Suva, which deepened my love for the sport,” he said.
“I never missed the program, and I always took time out to train at home with the support of my dad, who always pushed me to train hard.”
“It will be a big challenge to be away from home in Labasa, but I’m ready for it,” said Baselala.
“I know this is an important step for my football career, and I’m excited to push myself and continue developing my skills.”
Fiji FA Head of Talent Development Sunil Kumar commended the first batch of recruits, expressing confidence in their potential.
“These 16 players, including Isoa, represent the future of Fijian football. Our goal is to provide them with every tool they need to excel both locally and internationally,” Kumar said.
He emphasized the academy’s importance in fostering future stars for the national team.
“This initiative will likely help develop future stars for the national team, giving them access to top-level training and support,” said Kumar.
The academy will initially operate in partnership with Khalsa College, utilizing the school’s facilities for both education and training. This arrangement will continue until the academy’s dedicated grounds, currently under construction with a $2 million investment, are completed.
Kumar also highlighted the broader significance of the project within Fiji FA’s youth development efforts.
“Fiji FA has been actively enhancing youth football through initiatives like the Talent Development League, known as the McDonald’s Talent Development League. This league features age groups from U9 to U15 and includes 160 teams from 11 districts, with over 2,500 newly registered players,” Kumar explained.
The academy, made possible through the FIFA Talent Development Scheme (TDS), aligns with Fiji FA’s long-term goal of improving football infrastructure and nurturing young talent. The scheme, focused on providing opportunities for every talent, will officially launch in March.
Academy Team Players:
• Krishna Samy Junior – Ba| Born 2008
• Manasa Kubucaucau – Ba| Born 2008
• Kanav Goundar – Rakiraki| Born 2009
• Saula Muatini – Ba| Born 2009
• Jarryd Harry Mario – Lautoka| Born 2009
• Akuila Vata – Ba|| Born 2009
• Kameli Lomani Keresoni – Tavua| Born 2009
• Sialesi Vatanatawake – Lautoka| Born 2009
• Ryan Dixon David – Labasa| Born 2009
• Isoa Latui- Lautoka 2008
• Isoa Baselala – Rewa| Born 2010
• Tukai Ravonokula – Labasa| Born 2010
• Lekima Gonerau Rokodragi – Tavua|Born 2008
• Jone Loga – Rakiraki| Born 2010
• Shahil Shaydan Prasad – Lautoka| Born 2010
• Zaman Shah – Labasa| Born 2010