In the ever-evolving world of football, few names resonate with determination, perseverance, and unyielding passion quite like Shivan Pillay a/l Asokan. Born on December 7, 2000, in Kuala Krai, Kelantan, Shivan’s journey from a small-town boy to a prominent centre-back for Perak in the Malaysia Super League is nothing short of inspirational.
Early Life of Shivan Pillay: A Humble Beginning
Shivan was born into a Tamil-Malaysian family, with roots deeply intertwined in his rich cultural heritage. Of Chindian descent through his mother, Shivan’s upbringing in Kelantan and later Selangor laid the foundation for his illustrious football career.
As a student at Sri KDU Secondary School in Petaling Jaya, Selangor, Shivan Pillay’s talent for football began to shine. 2016 he made headlines by winning Telekom Malaysia’s “Mencari Ramli 5” football reality show. This victory earned him a life-changing opportunity: an intensive coaching session in Manchester, England. The experience not only honed his skills but also ignited a fierce ambition to excel on the global football stage.
The Breakthrough: Rising Through the Ranks
Shivan’s ascent in football was marked by resilience. Despite challenges, including leaving Gambang Sports School due to academic difficulties, he refused to give up on his dream. His determination caught the attention of the Selangor youth team during a friendly match against PKNS. This pivotal moment led to his recruitment into PKNS’s youth squad, setting the stage for greater achievements.
In 2018, Shivan Pillay emerged as a hero for Malaysia’s U19 team during the AFF U-19 Youth Championship. His decisive 90th-minute goal secured a 3-2 victory over Myanmar, solidifying his place in the hearts of Malaysian football fans. His performance in the AFC U-16 Championship qualifiers further showcased his exceptional talent, earning him a spot in Malaysia’s U23 provisional squad—a remarkable feat for a 17-year-old competing against seasoned players.
Defying Odds: The Road to National Stardom
Shivan’s journey to representing Malaysia has been anything but easy. His unwavering commitment to improvement and his ability to adapt to challenging situations have set him apart. In 2022, after two years of longing for a return to the national team, Shivan was called up for the AFF Under-23 Cup in Phnom Penh, Cambodia. His maturity and professionalism during training camps earned praise, and his contributions to the team underscored his value as a player.
When asked about his journey, Shivan Pillay reflected:
“It’s not just about talent; it’s about hard work, persistence, and believing in yourself, even when the odds are stacked against you.”
Shining Bright with Perak
Since joining Perak, Shivan Pillay has solidified his position as a key player in the team’s defense. His partnership with Jasper Nyholm has been instrumental in improving the team’s performance. In the 2023 season, Shivan played 28 matches across all tournaments, showcasing remarkable consistency and resilience.
Looking ahead to the 2024 season, Shivan has set ambitious goals:
- Personal Target: Play every match injury-free and maintain consistency.
- Team Goal: Propel Perak to a top-five finish in the Super League and advance to the Malaysia Cup Final.
Shivan’s commitment to excellence extends beyond the field. As an Adidas Malaysia ambassador since 2019, he inspires young athletes across the nation to pursue their dreams with passion and purpose.
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