The man who could fly from one end of the goalmouth to the other in seconds to save a goal being scored is no longer with us.
Legendary footballer who played for Ba as goalkeeper Ananaiasa Naivivi, 68, died at his home in Sigatoka on Sunday, October 2.
Fiji Football Association president Rajesh Patel said the country’s entire football family is saddened by the news of Naivivi’s death.
“It’s a huge loss. He was with us during the Digicel Fiji FACT just this year in Sigatoka.,” Patel said.
“Naivivi had been a great footballer and an inspirational leader of his time.
Patel acknowledged the supreme contribution by Naivivi in the football arena.
“He was a very passionate footballer and always supported the development of football in the country.
I convey my heartfelt sympathy and deepest condolences to his grieving family.”
“He was nicknamed “Hurricane” for his daring saves at goal.
Originally from Togovere Village but lived in Vatukarasa Village in Nadroga.
Played for the Ba team from 1975 to 1986. He was part of the Ba team that won the six-in-a-row IDC title from 1975 to 1985.
Naivivi was inducted into Fiji FA’s Legend’s Club in 2018.
