In Suva, Fiji, young football enthusiasts participated with great enthusiasm in the Fiji Football Association’s School Holiday Football Development Programme, which took place at the Fiji FA Academy in Vatuwaqa. This initiative, inviting boys and girls aged six to 16, is part of a nationwide effort to develop young sporting talent and maintain physical activity during the school holidays.

Sushil Singh, who heads football development for the southern region, outlined the program’s objectives, revealing that it commenced earlier this week and will continue throughout the first term school holidays. Singh emphasized the program’s inclusivity, stating, “It’s open to all young boys and girls out there,” noting various promotional efforts through social media to ensure parents are well-informed about the initiative.

The programme serves as an important channel for nurturing young athletes, providing opportunities for skill enhancement that could lead to national representation in the sport. Singh remarked, “It’s a pathway where we help these young boys and girls who have an interest in football develop them further and get them ready.”

In addition to the activities in Suva, similar programmes are being rolled out in other regions, such as Lautoka, targeting children aged seven to 15. These sessions aim to offer skill development, teamwork exercises, and expert coaching without financial implications for families. The absence of fees makes these opportunities accessible, ensuring that more children can benefit.

This initiative not only fosters physical fitness but also promotes essential life skills, such as teamwork and social interaction. As these School Holiday Football Programmes continue to expand across Fiji, they promise to be a positive investment in the youth, providing them with a space to stay active, make new friends, and possibly develop a lifelong passion for football.

Overall, the ongoing commitment to engaging youth through sports signifies a forward-thinking approach to community development, aiming for a healthier, more connected generation of young people.