In Fiji, sports serve as a unifying force within society, according to Minister of Lands and Mineral Resources, Filimoni Vosarogo. During the opening ceremony for the 85th FMF Inter District Championship (IDC) at Churchill Park on Tuesday evening, Vosarogo extended his best wishes to all participating teams.
He reflected on the IDC’s long-standing history, which dates back to 1938, emphasizing its role in showcasing Fijian football talent while promoting cultural exchange and national unity. “The shared passion for football breaks all barriers, bringing people together regardless of their backgrounds and beliefs,” he stated.
Vosarogo also noted Fiji’s recent advancements in international football, particularly its rise in FIFA rankings, moving up to 150th place—a significant increase of 18 spots in just ten months. He attributed this achievement to the commitment and hard work of both the national men’s and women’s teams, expressing pride in their accomplishments.
Furthermore, he encouraged Fijian footballers to act as role models for the youth, recognizing the various social challenges faced by young people today. He highlighted the significant role of sports in helping youth realize their potential and carve out successful careers.
The Minister praised grassroots development efforts led by FMF Foods Ltd and McDonald’s, singling out the McDonald’s Talent Development Leagues, which recently conducted their first IDC tournament last month. He stressed the importance of investing in youth and grassroots programs as essential for the future of football in Fiji.
“The IDC has united people from diverse backgrounds for decades,” Vosarogo noted, pointing out the tournament’s structure, which features three divisions: super premium (tier 1), premier (tier 2), and senior (tier 3), with a total of eight, six, and six teams competing, respectively.