The Dreketi native kick-started his promising football career with Rewa and says it will be difficult to move on from the club that gave him his start.
However with the Olympic Games in Rio on calendar this year he’s keen to get as much high-level experience as possible to enhance his chance for selection.
“I started playing with Rewa and it has been a very hard decision but it is my dream to play in the Champions League,” Hughes says.
“I want to get more exposure and experience playing in the international arena so I can do my best in the Olympic Games in Rio.”
The 20-year-old has been instrumental in a number of Rewa’s recent victories and says fitting into the style of football Suva plays will be a challenge, but one he is ready for.
“I will try my best to play the style of football Suva is playing and will try my best to show my worth to the capital city side.”
Hughes, who was a member of Fiji’s history making U-20 squad in 2015, says the OFC competition will be a big step up from playing in the domestic national league, and the FIFA U-20 World Cup.
“I know playing in the OFC Champions League will be tough as there will be more senior and professional players playing for other clubs.”
Hughes acknowledged Rewa for giving him his break in football as a 17-year-old.
“I must thank the Rewa football family for looking after me well and giving me a break at an early age,” he says.
“I thank coach, Marika Rodu, for moulding me to becoming a better player today. I will always look up to him as he taught me a lot.”
Hughes has wished his former club all the best in the Fiji National League, and all other tournaments this year.
Suva have been drawn in Group B alongside 2015 runners-up Team Wellington, former champions Hekari United and newcomers AS Lossi of New Caledonia.
They will play their first game of the 2016 OFC Champions League against Team Wellington on Saturday 9 April at QBE Stadium in Auckland.
For more on Fiji football visit fijifootball.com.fj

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