The Nadi Football Association is seeking approximately $17,000 to prepare for the 2024 FMF Inter-District Championship, which will take place at Churchill Park in Lautoka next week. The need for funds was highlighted by Nadi FA board executive Lawrence Kumar during a fundraising event held at Sylvia Hall in Malolo, Nadi, last Saturday, where a large crowd attended.
Kumar noted the event’s success and called for more sponsorships to help the team break a 22-year winless streak in the IDC. “The association requires $17,000 for the campaign, and we need more sponsors as we aim to end this jinx,” Kumar stated. Reflecting on the team’s recent performance, he mentioned that although they performed well at the B.O.G, finishing as runners-up, the morale within the camp remains high with a focus on winning the upcoming tournament.
Nadi FA president Mohin Rafiq informed that former Fiji Under-20 captain Abdulla Aiyaz has integrated well into the team following his joining last week. Aiyaz, a Sydney-based player, is expected to work in tandem with striker Ali Naseri, whose travel documents are currently being processed.
“We are excited to have Abdulla Aiyaz from Sydney, and we are finalizing Ali Naseri’s travel arrangements. We’re thankful for head coach Raj Dayal’s arrival, as he is quickly building rapport with the team. We’ve progressed from one training session to two this week,” Rafiq explained.
On Sunday, Nadi played a friendly match against Navua, resulting in a 1-1 draw at Prince Charles Park in Nadi. The match was free for the public, providing a great opportunity for fans to come out and support their team.
In related news, ticket prices for the IDC have been announced to make them accessible for fans of all ages. Grandstand tickets will be available for $30 for adults and $15 for children under 10. Pavilion B tickets are priced at $20 for adults and $10 for children under 10. Fans in the Drua stands will pay $15 for adults and $8 for children under 10, while embankment tickets are set at $10 for adults and $5 for children under 10.