Chaired by TFA senior vice president Paula Ma’u, last week’s meeting involved 11 of the country’s 16 clubs.
Top of the agenda was the budget and departmental reports reflecting a progressive and successful financial year as presented by various departments of the organisation.
One of the many highlights in 2009 was the successful launching of OFC’s ‘Just Play’ programme in Primary Schools and communities in the Kingdom. OFC worked closely with TFA and the Tongan Government to introduce the programme which promotes physical activity for children aged 6-13 and encourages community involvement.
The initiative received significant funding support from the Australian Government through its agencies the Australian Agency for International Development (AusAID) and the Australian Sports Commission (ASC) as well as Football Federation Australia (FFA).
Another milestone for Tonga’s football development was the selection of two assistant referees, namely Tevita Makasini and Lata i Sia Tui Futuna, to officiate at the FIFA World Cup and FIFA Women’s World Cup respectively.
In addition, Tonga celebrated the commencement of the FIFA Goal III project which will include a upgrade of the second pitch to international standard and the construction of an additional dormitory to accommodate 32 people.
TFA General Secretary ‘Ahongalu Fusimalohi says he is pleased with the progress of the organisation.
“Despite the inevitable impact that tight economic times has had on TFA’s football development, our organisational goals remain the same and TFA continues to go from strength to strength,” said Fusimalohi.
TFA managed to stay well under its 2009 budget of around one million pa’anga for the last financial year and has approved a new budget worth more than $800,000 pa’anga (NZ$600,000) for 2010 with a specific focus on grassroots development.
Story courtesy TFA Media