UNITED Football Club came together on Saturday to celebrate 50-years of football friendships built on the beautiful game.
Formed in 1976 for Sunday pickup games, their passion and bond soon led them to play tournaments on the Lower Mainland.
As interest in competitive games increased, United took a major step forward by joining the Fiji Football Association in 1980, becoming one of its seventh affiliated teams.
United became defunct following the merger between the breakaway Pacific League and Fijian Soccer League in 1999 marking the end of an era for a team that was built on love for the game and camaraderie.
At the heart of United’s early years was Jay Narayan who later served as the secretary of the FFA for over a decade.
Recalling the club’s formative moments, Narayan highlighted a major achievement in 1977.
“In the spring of 1977, United played in the final of the Mewa Singh Tournament in Vancouver.
United defeated Club India in the semifinal but lost the final to Sukhsagar in extra time,” Narayan said during the celebration.
“The team included guest players Ignatius Rehman, Shiu Ram, Ben Usman, and Semi Kaliappan. This was a major success, and the club celebrated for a long time that spring.
“Shortly after, the Fiji League was established, and seven Fiji soccer teams proudly joined. By then, the team was more organized, with proper uniforms and officials. Jagjit Parihar, Bala Krishna, and the late Shiu Prasad served as the first officials, with Vancouver Babu Papaya as head coach.”
Narayan also paid tribute to the many who contributed to the club’s legacy.
“Over 200 players, members, and supporters have contributed their time and energy to sustain the club’s longevity.
“Some stayed for many years, others for shorter periods, but each gave their best. While it is not possible to name everyone, United extends sincere gratitude to all who contributed whether in large or small ways,” he added.
