Over 40 young athletes showcased their skills at the Fiji U17 Futsal trials held today at the Fiji FA Academy in Ba, marking a pivotal moment in the lead-up to the upcoming Olympic Youth Festival. The trials attracted 30 boys and 10 girls, highlighting a growing enthusiasm for futsal among the youth in the region.
Among the standout participants was a female player who traveled all the way from Australia to compete, exemplifying her dedication to the sport. Her impressive performance caught the attention of the coaching staff, particularly that of assistant coach Raj Kumar. He expressed his admiration for the turnout and the exceptional talent displayed, stating, “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.”
Kumar’s comments reflect the optimism surrounding the potential of these young athletes and the increasing popularity of futsal. As the youth eagerly participate in these trials, it suggests a bright future for the sport in Fiji.
Looking towards the future, the competition is set to intensify with the main trials planned for February 20 in Suva. This event will determine the final squad that will represent Fiji at the Olympic Youth Festival. The enthusiasm and commitment demonstrated at the trials indicate that the next generation of futsal players is poised to make an impact on the international stage, bringing hope and excitement for the future of the sport in Fiji.