Christopher Wasasala’s soccer experience was not a smooth start as he had faced many challenges when he first began his soccer journey.

The 27-year-old of Kia Island, Macuata, Vanua Levu, started his soccer journey by first playing in the under 10 Labasa team.

Mr Wasasala said he had been injured many times while playing soccer and also had been criticized by unhappy fans.

“At times, I would go online on social media and see comments from people saying, “My time is up”, “No discipline”, etc,” he said.

“This never demotivated me to give up on soccer. I love soccer and nothing will stop me from trying more and more.”

He said he often took things to his heart and felt disheartened about such remarks.

“This was really challenging for me as I had to work twice as hard to prove people wrong, keep up with the younger players and learn to keep myself cool on the field,” Mr Wasasala added.

He said balancing work and soccer training was another challenge.

“I am not only a soccer player, but I am also a military officer for the Republic of Fiji Military Forces (RFMF),” he added.

Despite all the challenges, Mr Wasasala succeeded in his soccer journey and never looked back.

He was awarded the Golden Boot Award after winning against Rewa during the Battle of the Giants (BOG) held on September 4, 2022 at Churchill Park.

He said before the BOG title, the main aim for him was to attain the Golden Boot.

“Soccer holds an important part in my life and I love it very much as it takes me around the world and it motivates me to push myself further,” Mr Wasasala said.

He said the win really meant a lot to him and his team, especially after a setback in the Fiji Fact finals.

“The victory felt sweeter for me as my time spent away from work and family paid off,” he said.

He said his uncle, “Simmon Peter” who was known as Fiji’s Maradona, had always been his biggest inspiration.

“As an older player, it is my responsibility to portray and inspire the characteristics of a good role model to our younger generation in football.”

Mr Wasasala is the second born child and has two other siblings. He also has two beautiful daughters with his partner.

He said his strength and courage came from knowing that his family was backing and supporting him whether, his team won or lost a game. The tournament was everything to him.

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