A perfect Fijian hospitality
THE former Manchester United defender Wes Brown commended the great Fijian hospitality he received during his stay in Fiji.
Brown was the special guest speaker at the Vodafone/Fiji FA Awards night held at Pullman Nadi Bay Resort on Saturday.
The 40-year-old English professional footballer said Fiji was already in his bucket list.
He said he did not give a second thought when the opportunity came from FIFA.
“Of course I knew about Fiji as it was one of the places I always wanted to come to from England, so when the opportunity came, it was a definite yes from me,” he said.
Before leaving our shores on Sunday night, Brown said he had a great four days of stay in Fiji.
“I really enjoyed my four days stay here in Fiji.
“A great welcoming reception by the president (Rajesh Patel), the Fijian hospitality, awesome weather, and the visit to a school was also a pleasing experience.”
On Friday, Brown visited Nadi Sangam Primary School.
While addressing the school assembly, he advised the aspiring footballers on the importance of looking after themselves.
He said the Fijian wonder-boy Roy Krishna was a great example and an inspiration to everyone in this country.
“When I was of your age, I joined a team. I dedicated myself to that team wholeheartedly, I trained every day and gave my best before I was given a chance at Manchester United.
“It was a dream come true.
“I had the privilege to work under a manager like Sir Alex Ferguson and great footballers like Cristiano Ronaldo, Ryan Giggs, Wayne Rooney, Chris Smalling, and Rio Ferdinand.
“Football is getting bigger and bigger all the time and your own Fijian professional Roy Krishna who is playing in the Indian Super League is no doubt a really big thing.
“The kids who are dreaming to become a footballer, we have to make it as easy as possible for them, and for the kids, you really have to be dedicated towards your goal.”