Fiji FA mourns three fallen heroes
THE Fiji Football Association (Fiji FA) president Rajesh Patel, board members and the entire football fraternity is saddened to learn the passing away of three former district and national team players.
Former Lautoka and national rep Robert Naga Sanjeevi, former Fiji and Lauoka great Mike Thoman and the true son of Nadi Ganga Raju had their last breathe in December last year.
Famously known as the ‘dark horse of Fiji soccer’, Sanjeevi was part of the Fiji national team that participated in the inaugural South Pacific Games in 1963.
Sanjeevi was acknowledged for his contribution by Fiji FA and awarded a legends medal during the opening ceremony of the 2019 Vodafone Fiji FACT in Lautoka.
Thoman brought many victories during his playing days for Lautoka and later his great leadership qualities saw him being appointed as the Fiji National team coach. He also coached Lautoka and the Fiji U19 team.
For late Raju, he only played for the Nadi district side. He did not take up the opportunity to don the national jumper because of his profession as a headteacher.
Fiji FA president Rajesh Patel acknowledged the supreme contribution of the three fallen heroes of Fiji soccer.
“We have definitely lost three legends from the football fraternity. They all were also known for their great leadership roles while representing their teams.”
“I convey my heartfelt sympathy and deepest condolence to the grieving families and I pray to the Almighty that their soul rest in peace.”
We have definitely lost three legends from the football fraternity. They all were also known for their great leadership roles while representing their teams
– Rajesh Patel