The Fiji Football Association Board is set to convene soon to establish a budget focused on drug awareness initiatives. Chief Executive Mohammed Yusuf expressed concern over the increasing number of football players testing positive for drug use, emphasizing the need for a proactive response.
During the recent FMF Inter District Championship held in Lautoka, 21 players tested positive, a significant rise compared to just seven cases recorded in the previous tournament. Yusuf noted that this trend indicates a growing issue of substance abuse in the country, aligning with government concerns.
To address the situation, the Fiji FA plans to collaborate with relevant authorities, including the Ministry of Social Welfare and the Fiji Police Force. The Board will authorize a budget that will facilitate hiring psychologists and experts to support footballers and those involved in the sport. Yusuf highlighted that over half of the players appear to be using drugs, necessitating urgent intervention.
He stressed the organization’s commitment to not only identifying and suspending offenders but also to educating the youth of Fiji about the dangers of drug use and its impact on families, communities, and villages.
In related news, players who tested positive during the IDC have been temporarily suspended and are facing the Fiji FA Disciplinary Committee. First-time offenders will receive a three-month suspension and a $200 fine, which must be paid by both the player and their respective district. Those caught a second time will face a three-year suspension and a $500 fine, while repeat offenders will also face the same penalty. The disciplinary committee will have the authority to review and potentially modify these penalties.
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