BABASIGA Lions soccer coach Epeli Levaci has been given the boot after being informed by team officials last week.
After three years mentoring the northern side, Levaci yesterday said he had not received any letter to officially inform him of the decision.
"However I am aware and have been told by officials that I am no longer coach for the side," said Levaci. "I do not want to say more on the matter but am thankful to the committee for their trust in me through the years.
"I had offered my help to the association since 2009 as no one had stood up to take the task.
"I may not have performed to par but I know for a fact that the people running the committee have the best intentions for the Labasa team and they are doing this for the good of the side," he said.
Levaci pleaded with officials of the Labasa Soccer Association to always consider the welfare of players.
He said in order for the association to produce a winning team, players' welfare had to be paramount.
"There are a few contracted players in the side but the association does not have to focus on them only but has to consider all 18 players and prioritise their welfare," he said.
Labasa Soccer Association president Bhim Raj said a letter had been given to Levacu informing him of the decision.
"This is a new committee and they are coming in with changes that need to be followed in order to better the side's performance," said Raj.
"Labasa's new coach Ivor Evans will begin his coaching duties today as the new coach for the team and we are banking on his knowledge and experience on the soccer field," he said.