Sameer earns Fiji U-16 spot

Sangam Sadhu Kuppuswamy Memorial College (SSKMC) student Mohammed Sameer is set to put his body on the line for Fiji.

He is part of the Sunil Kumar-coached Junior Bula Boys squad for the OFC Under-16 Championship in Papua New Guinea this month.

The team departed on Monday.

His involvement in football started when he was in primary school.

Sameer said he described his selection as a proud achievement, saying it reflected his dedication, discipline, perseverance, and passion for football.

“My achievement was an inspiration, showing that hard work and determination could help turn dreams into reality,” he said.

“I have been encouraged to play with courage, humility and confidence throughout the tournament.”

The Nadi Sangam SKM College community wished Sameer and the Junior Bula Boys every success at the OFC Under-16 Championship and said it looked forward to celebrating more milestones in his football career.

“As you proudly wear the Fiji jersey, remember that you carry with you the hopes and pride of your family, your school and your nation,” the school said.

Fiji opens its campaign against New Caledonia in on July 12 at PNG Football Stadium in Port Moresby, Papua New Guinea. The tournament serves as a pathway for Oceania’s emerging football talent, with the top teams battling for regional honours and qualification opportunities.

Meanwhile, 15-year-old Rylan Kumar with family ties to Ba and Suva is making history with his New Zealand U16 selection while inspiring young Indo-Fijian footballers.

Rylan’s passion for football became evident when he was five years old.

At 15, he has already built an impressive football résumé. He plays for Auckland United after developing through Fencibles United and is also part of the Auckland FC Development Squad.

He represents St Kentigern College in the First XI, where the team remains unbeaten this season.

Rylan has also enjoyed success within the Fiji community through football. At the New Zealand Fiji Football Incorporated youth tournament, he captained Ba to Under-14 and Under-16 championship titles.

A proud member of the Sangam community, he also became one of the youngest players to win back-to-back Sangam Convention football championships — first with Hamilton Sangam in Ba, Fiji, and later with Middlemore Sangam during the 100th Sangam Convention in Nadi.

Pools: Group A: Fiji, New Caledonia, Papua New Guinea, Samoa.

Group B: New Zealand, Solomon Islands, Tahiti, Vanuatu.