The Fiji Football Association (Fiji FA) is making strides to foster the growth of young football talent by implementing a new policy for districts involved in the forthcoming 2026 Extra Premier League and Extra Senior League competitions. With the backing of the Fiji FA Board, this initiative requires each district to include three youth players in their 22-member match-day squad. The regulations specify that two of these players must be under the age of 19 and one must be under the age of 17.
To ensure the effectiveness of this approach, the Fiji FA has mandated that at least one youth player must start the match and play the full duration. This requirement aims to provide young athletes with valuable experience in senior-level competitions, helping them to hone their skills and prepare for future challenges in the sport.
Fiji FA’s chief executive officer, Mohammed Yusuf, highlighted the goal of the initiative, stating, “This is to make sure youth players are not just named on the list but are actually playing.” By guaranteeing active participation for young players in matches, the organization expects to accelerate their development and readiness for international football opportunities.
Additionally, this initiative will enhance the capabilities of the national technical department by establishing a structured pathway to identify talent for the Fiji under-20 and under-17 national teams, which compete in World Cup qualifiers. This emphasis on youth development underscores the Fiji FA’s dedication to building a solid foundation for the future of football in the country.
Overall, this forward-thinking initiative signifies the importance of integrating young talent into the sport, potentially enabling Fiji to nurture more skilled players who can shine on the international stage. Through this commitment to youth involvement, the Fiji FA aims not only to elevate the standard of football in Fiji but also to inspire a new generation of athletes.