England-based Fijian defender Scott Wara has joined Bula FC, adding international experience, versatility, and defensive strength to the squad ahead of the new campaign.
Bula FC says a product of the Stoke City Academy, Wara began his football journey at just 10-years-old in local Sunday league competitions before progressing through Stoke City’s youth ranks to feature for their U18 and U21 sides.
They say growing up in the working-class city of Stoke shaped both his character and ambition, with memories of Premier League matchdays inspiring him to pursue football at the highest level and bring that same passion and pride to supporters wherever he plays.
The club says since leaving Stoke City, the versatile defender has built a solid professional career across England and Ireland, featuring for Leek Town FC, Finn Harps FC of Ireland, Stalybridge Celtic FC, Prescot Cables FC, and most recently Stafford Rangers FC, where he has been a regular first-team player.
Bula FC says his career highlights include reaching the FA Youth Cup semi-finals with Stoke City U18, consistent playoff campaigns with Leek Town, and making history as the first Fijian to play in the League of Ireland with Finn Harps.
Wara made his senior Fiji Men's team debut at just 17, represented Fiji U23 at 19 and later featured in the World Cup qualifier semi-finals for the Fiji senior national side.
While describing his signing with the club as a milestone moment, Wara says it’s a moment in history for him to sign a professional contract in Fiji.
He adds it is a personal achievement because he has been waiting for the opportunity to return to professional football and contribute at this level.
Bula FC will take on Vanuatu United FC in the first-ever match in the OFC Professional League on January 17th at Eden Park in Auckland.