More than 40 young athletes participated in the Fiji U17 Futsal trials held at the Fiji FA Academy in Ba today, marking an exciting step in preparations for the forthcoming Olympic Youth Festival. The trials saw a vibrant turnout with 30 boys and 10 girls, reflecting a significant interest in futsal among the youth in the region.
Among the participants was a female player who made the long journey from Australia specifically to compete, showcasing her impressive skills and commitment to the sport, which did not go unnoticed by the coaching staff. Assistant coach Raj Kumar expressed admiration for the turnout and the level of talent displayed during the trials.
Kumar noted, “There is a lot of raw talent, especially among the girls, and it’s encouraging to see players coming from as far as Australia to be part of this program.” His remarks underline the promise seen in the young players and the growth of futsal as a sport.
Looking ahead, the competition is expected to increase as the main trials are scheduled for February 20 in Suva, where the final squad representing Fiji at the Olympic Youth Festival will be determined. This enthusiasm for participation serves as a hopeful sign for the future of futsal in Fiji, fostering a new generation of players eager to shine on the international stage.