Kosa, more than a footballer

Local Sports

Former Lautoka rep, Epeli Kosa (L) with friends at a Veterans gameEPELI Ragavatu Kosa was more than just a footballer, he was an institution of humanity.

The former Lautoka and Fiji footballer is described as selfless and kind hearted for helping footballers with their stay in New Zealand.

Kosa migrated to New Zealand in 1989, and played for Papatoetoe AFC in Auckland.

He passed away on Sunday, aged 65.

Former Lautoka and national team footballer Naveen Kumar said on Kosa’s behest the club provided temporary contracts to footballers from Fiji.

Kosa always looked out for Fijian footballer’s future.

“Kosa was a buffer between the club and the footballers,” said Naveen.

“Father, as I always called him, was one of the first Lautoka players' to come out of Fiji to play football on a contract in New Zealand.

“His words were good with the club that they facilitated players' stay in New Zealand.”

Kosa made sure the footballers were looked after well, made to feel at home, so much so that he’d go out of his way to house them during their stay in the country.

“He was all about helping others, a man of immense love and empathy”.

“I’m grateful for what he did for me. Rest in heavenly peace father,” said Kumar.

Shaukat Ali, who had known Kosa from his high school days, said he talked to him on Thursday, and didn’t know that it would be his last conversation.

“We were brothers from another mother, very loving, honest and down to earth,” said a distraught Ali.

“Kosa was someone who would give his shirt off his back to strangers, he was selfless and compassionate.”

Kosa’s viewing will be at the Mangere Centre Park today between 7pm-9pm.

Funeral will be held at 11am tomorrow at Sama Manukau Memorial Gardens in Auckland.