Surrey Stars players raise aloft the Jayden Memorial Cup, the team beat Rewa 3-0 in the final at the Bear Creek Park in Surrey
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Fiji Sports
PETER Nizamud Dean can’t be more proud of Rewa Legends for taking the initiative of helping out former footballers.
The former Nadi and Fijian national team defender believes all the districts in Fiji need to form a legends club and be the brothers keeper.
“I can’t be more proud of the Rewa Legends, who have demonstrated that though unity anything is possible,” said Peter.
The brainchild of the Nadi Legends saw the need to take care of his own, that in 2005, he formed the club with former district footballers.
Peter said with a strong 50-plus membership, the Nadi Legends is the first club in the country formed with a purpose to alleviate the emotional, physical health and financial challenges of former footballers.
“Now that Rewa Legends have followed suit, other districts need to step up. It’s only way forward.”
“Let’s foster collaboration, strengthen relationships, and allow for the exchange of knowledge and support.
“Let’s demonstrate humility and a willingness to help them overcome challenges who otherwise may be struggling.”
Peter said since the inception of organized football in the country, leading up to 2000, former footballers played the sport out of pure passion and pride.
He added, unlike the modern day footballers who earn a living off football.
“New generation puts forward demands, has contracts, and as such have something to fall back on once their career comes to an end.”
“Footballers of yesteryears face tough times as age is catching up, are sickly and unable to earn a living.
“We need to take care of our own,” said Peter.