Struggles shape young striker

Faith and hard work shapes Tailevu/Naitasiri young striker Jason Dau to be the best and win the Extra Senior League Player of the Year last Saturday.

“I didn’t dream that I’d win this award, and I thank my family for their unwavering support,” Dau said.

“I started playing football when I was in Year three. I began with the Rewa team Under-9 and I’m now in the Tailevu/Naitasiri during my high school days.

The 18-year-old Natoaika, Naitasiri lad featured for the Tailevu/Naitasiri under 15, 16 and 17 youth teams respectively.

He was then promoted to the main senior team.

“I played this sport because of the mental capacity and connection. There is no hatred in the sport, as we play with passion and good intentions,” Dau said.

“I aspire to be a pilot.”

Dau urged all the youths to refrain from using drugs and seek opportunities that life has to offer.

“I live all the way in Naitasiri and transportation is a challenge that I face. After training, I’m usually late, I normally wait for the bus in Sawani but if there’s no transportation available then I walk,” he said.

“It doesn’t deter me because I see it as my motivation that I can do the work and I will.”

Dau was able to refrain from peer pressure and many distractions at a young age.

“I want to focus on my dreams, if I can improve my game and feature for the Bula FC team in the OFC (Oceania Football Confederation) Pro league competition,” he said.