The Nadi Football Association is seeking approximately $17,000 to prepare their team for the upcoming 2024 FMF Inter-District Championship, which will take place next week at Churchill Park in Lautoka. This revelation was made by Nadi FA board member Lawrence Kumar during a fundraiser held at Sylvia Hall in Malolo, Nadi, where a large number of fans participated last Saturday night.
Kumar expressed gratitude for the turnout, stating, “The event was a grand success as we had a huge number of fans in attendance.” He emphasized the importance of securing additional sponsorships to help the association meet its financial goal as they strive to break a 22-year winless streak in the IDC.
The team has shown promise after performing well at the B.O.G, although they fell short in the final. “Morale is high in camp, and the focus is to win the cup in the next tournament,” Kumar added.
Nadi FA president Mohin Rafiq announced that former Fiji Under-20 captain Abdulla Aiyaz has integrated well into the team since joining last week. Aiyaz, a Sydney-based player, is expected to team up with striker Ali Naseri, who is also set to join the squad soon.
“We have Abdulla Aiyaz from Sydney, and Ali Naseri’s travel documents are being processed,” Rafiq explained. “I’m thankful for the arrival of head coach Raj Dayal, who is seamlessly fitting in. We have progressed from one training session to two sessions this week.”
On Sunday, the Green Machine had a practice match against Navua, ending in a 1-1 draw at Prince Charles Park in Nadi. “It was a free entry for all, providing a great opportunity for our fans to come out and support the team,” said Rafiq.
In other news, ticket prices for the IDC have been set to ensure accessibility for fans of different ages. Grandstand tickets are available for $30 for adults and $15 for children under ten. Pavilion B tickets are priced at $20 for adults and $10 for children under ten. In the Drua stands, tickets cost $15 for adults and $8 for children under ten, while embankment tickets are available for $10 for adults and $5 for children under ten.