But that dream has become a reality for young Betsy Ali who, after making his debut last season, went on to become part of the historic Rewa side that won the 2011 Pillay Garments Champions League, Vodafone Fiji FACT and Inkk Mobile Battle of the Giants tournaments.
He later earned a spot with the Delta Tigers on their two-match tour to New Zealand to face top club sides Auckland City and Waitakere United.
The former Nasinu Muslim College student has only just turned 20 and says his career has unfolded like a dream so far.
“Playing for a champion side like Rewa has indeed been a great honour for me,” he says.
“Keeping up with such good players in the beginning was a tough ask but the support of my team mates made me determined and I have also received inspiration from our skipper Simione Tamanisau.”
The suitably-named Ali admits even he did not expect to achieve such success so quickly.
“I never thought that I would achieve so much when I was still in my debut season,” he says.
“I would like to thank my parents, the Rewa team officials and the players who have all helped to give me this break.”
Ali missed out on selection for the previous Fiji U-20 national side but still has every chance of representing his country as he has been named in a 30-man U-23 squad preparing for the Olympic Games qualifiers, which will take place next month in New Zealand.
But, while he has many exciting footballing opportunities on the horizon, Ali has his feet planted firmly on the ground and is also trying to give his attention to other important areas of his life.
“As we all know, education is the key for anyone’s success,” he says.
“I would like to continue to play for Rewa but my main emphasis this year will be to start my tertiary studies. It will be hard to balance studies with football but I am sure that with my strong support I will be able to cope.”
For more on Fiji football go to www.fijifootball.com.fj

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