The Fiji Football Association (Fiji FA) Board is set to convene shortly to establish a budget for drug awareness initiatives. Chief Executive Mohammed Yusuf expressed concern over the increasing number of footballers testing positive for drug use, highlighting the troubling trend that has emerged.
Yusuf noted that 21 players tested positive during the recent FMF Inter District Championship in Lautoka, a significant jump from only seven cases reported in the previous tournament. He emphasized that the surge in positive tests points to a broader national trend of rising substance abuse, aligning with government concerns.
To address the issue, Fiji FA plans to collaborate with relevant authorities, including the Ministry of Social Welfare and Fiji Police Force, to enhance their efforts. Yusuf mentioned that the Board’s approval of their budget would facilitate the engagement of psychologists and experts focusing on educating footballers and associated individuals about the dangers of drug misuse.
“As part of our social responsibility, we aim not only to track and suspend individuals but also to leverage this data to educate the youth of Fiji regarding the dangers of drugs and their detrimental effects on families, communities, and villages,” Yusuf stated.
In the meantime, players who tested positive for substance abuse during the IDC have been suspended and will face the Fiji FA Disciplinary Committee. First-time offenders can expect a three-month suspension and a $200 fine, which must be paid by both the player and their district. Second-time offenders face a more severe penalty of a three-year suspension and a $500 fine. Repeat offenders will also encounter a three-year suspension with the same fine structure. The disciplinary committee will reserve the right to modify penalties as necessary.
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