Extra Bula FC Captain Roy Krishna says the last six months with the club have been some of the most challenging but rewarding times of his career, as the new professional team performed beyond expectations in its first season.
The team finished third in the regular season, something Krishna says is impressive for a side that was put together just two months before the competition started.
He says many people doubted the team from the beginning and did not expect them to do well.
Krishna says one of the biggest positives has been seeing the players grow, especially in adjusting from amateur football to a professional environment.
He adds that more than 20 Fijian footballers moved into professional football almost overnight, which was not easy.
He says even he needed time to adjust when he first became a professional player, and the young squad is still learning and growing.
Krishna says the players showed belief, determination and strong team spirit throughout the season, adding that while the team still has a long way to go, it has a bright future ahead.
While the team wanted to reach the final, Krishna says he believes they can go further next season and adds that everything happens at the right time.
He thanked the fans for supporting the new team from the beginning and standing by them through both good and difficult times, adding their support kept the young team motivated every week.
Krishna adds that he hopes fans continue supporting Extra Bula FC, saying the connection between the team and its supporters will continue to grow stronger.
He says people should not write the team off, as the young players will continue to improve and the league will help produce future stars for Fijian football.
Krishna says young Fijian players who dream of becoming professionals now have a clear path, and fans will soon see new football stars coming through the competition.
