The Ba businessman secured a lanslide victory during the association’s 73rd Ordinary Congress in Suva at the start of this month and revealed the scope of his goals in an official address on the Fiji FA website just days after his election.
“The vision is to put Fiji football on the world map as one of the genuine football nations,” he said. “We will be giving 100 per cent to see our target achieved.”
Patel believes such a lofty goal can be met and called on the public to back the association as it looks to move forward.
“My humble request is for the football-loving fans to have patience and faith in us. There is a change at Fiji FA and very soon we will reap the rewards of the hard work that is going to be put in.”
Patel was also quick to offer his gratitude to those who supported his bid to take up the role.
“I would like to thank all the districts, delegates and Fiji FA board members with whose support I was elected. My job has been made easier with that tremendous support and it is our duty now to prove our worth so that they do not lose faith in us and that we work towards the betterment of football in Fiji.”
In the rest of his address, the new man in charge outlined some of his plans for the opening days of his reign.
“The first task now is to call a board of control meeting,” he said.
“It is important to draw up a plan of how we are going to go about our work. In this meeting the board members will be given a portfolio each. Each member will be looking after their respective area and we will make sure the work is reviewed.
“An important matter in this meeting will also be the three national sides – men’s, women’s and U-23 – which will be participating in their respective Oceania play-offs next year.
“As we progress I have not ruled out the idea of moving to a franchise-based competition locally. This indeed will make the competitions stronger here with the best players playing against each other. This will be huge for the development of football and a perfect way to rake in more revenue for the franchises.
“A huge part of my plan is also to market the Fiji FA brand locally and overseas. Various Fiji FA merchandise will be sold and made available to the fans.”
For more on Fiji football go to www.fijifootball.com.fj

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