The Digicel Young Kulas, Fiji’s U20 women’s football team, are set to begin their international journey to the United States and Costa Rica, culminating with their participation in the FIFA U20 Women’s World Cup in Colombia at the end of the month.
The team received their jerseys for the World Cup during a ceremony on Thursday night. The jerseys, adorned with traditional Fijian designs, reflect Fiji’s cultural heritage and distinctive identity.
Adi Litia Bakaniceva will captain the team, while Angie Rekha will serve as vice-captain.
Sports World has contributed by providing Puma boots and training shoes for the players, while Kappa, the official apparel supplier, offered kits featuring jerseys with Fijian Masi prints, as well as off-field clothing.
Vinod Kumar, General Manager of Sports World, expressed pride in supporting the team and wished them success. He stated, “We’ve sponsored male teams in the past, and when the opportunity arose for the National Women’s team, we committed to providing the best. I wish the team all the best, and I’m confident you will bring glory to Fiji.”
Naziah Ali Krishna, Head of Delegation, highlighted the importance of the upcoming tour and competition. She noted the team’s recent training camp in Australia and thanked the local community, particularly the Fijian High Commission and the Australia Fiji Football Incorporation, for their support during that time.
The Digicel Young Kulas will spend 10 days in the US training and competing in matches in San Francisco and Sacramento, followed by a week in Costa Rica for international friendlies against Costa Rica and Morocco. These experiences are aimed at sharpening their skills and providing exposure ahead of the World Cup.
Fiji is placed in a challenging group with Brazil, Canada, and France, with their opening match scheduled against Brazil on August 31 in Medellin, Colombia.
Before departing for San Francisco, the team presented their i-Tatau to the President of Fiji, Ratu Wiliame Katonivere, as a traditional gesture.