The Digicel Young Kulas, Fiji’s U20 women’s football team, are set to depart for their international tour to the United States and Costa Rica, leading up to 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 tournament during a ceremony on Thursday night. The jerseys, featuring traditional Fijian designs, reflect the nation’s culture and identity.
Midfielder Adi Litia Bakaniceva has been appointed as the team captain, with defender Angie Rekha serving as vice-captain.
The team has received support from Sports World, which provided Puma footwear, and Kappa, the official apparel manufacturer, supplied kits that include jerseys decorated with traditional Fijian Masi prints, as well as off-field outfits.
Vinod Kumar, the General Manager of Sports World, expressed pride in backing the team and extended best wishes for their success. He remarked, “We have sponsored all the male teams, and when the opportunity arose for the National Women’s team, we readily supported them. It’s our commitment to provide our girls with the best. I wish the team all the best and am confident they will bring glory to Fiji.”
Naziah Ali Krishna, the Team Head of Delegation, highlighted the importance of their upcoming international tour and competition. She noted that they recently returned from a training camp in Australia, where they received robust support from the local community, including the Fijian High Commission and the Australia Fiji Football Incorporation.
The Digicel Young Kulas will spend ten days in the US for matches and training sessions 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 enhancing their skills and providing vital exposure ahead of the World Cup.
Fiji is placed in a challenging group alongside Brazil, Canada, and France. Their opening match is scheduled for August 31st in Medellin, Colombia, against Brazil.
Before their departure for San Francisco, the team presented their i-Tatau to the President of Fiji, Ratu Wiliame Katonivere.