The Nadi Football Association is seeking approximately $17,000 to prepare its team for the upcoming 2024 FMF Inter-District Championship, scheduled at Churchill Park in Lautoka next week.
Lawrence Kumar, a member of the Nadi FA board of control, made this announcement during a successful fundraising event held at Sylvia Hall in Malolo, Nadi, last Saturday night, which attracted a large turnout of fans.
Kumar expressed gratitude for the support received, emphasizing the need for additional sponsors to help the team break a 22-year winless streak at the IDC. He noted that while the team performed well in the recent Battle of the Giants but fell short in the final, morale is high, and they are determined to secure victory in the next tournament.
Nadi FA president Mohin Rafiq highlighted the recent addition of former Fiji Under-20 captain Abdulla Aiyaz to the squad, who joined last week from Sydney. Rafiq mentioned that Aiyaz is expected to pair well with striker Ali Naseri, whose travel arrangements are currently being finalized.
He also expressed appreciation for the arrival of head coach Raj Dayal, stating that they have progressed from one training session to two this week. The Green Machine played a friendly match on Sunday against Navua at Prince Charles Park in Nadi, which ended in a 1-1 draw.
In an effort to make the tournament accessible, the price of tickets for the IDC has been set to cater to fans of all ages. Grandstand tickets are available for $30 for adults and $15 for children under 10, while Pavilion B tickets are $20 for adults and $10 for children under 10. Additionally, adults in the Drua stands will pay $15 and children under 10 will be charged $8, while embankment tickets are priced at $10 for adults and $5 for children under 10.