RAROTONGA – The Cook Islands take another big step in its football development with the ground breaking ceremony for their goal project set for next Tuesday, 15 April (local time).

According to Cook Islands Football Association (CIFA) chief executive, Va’inga Tonga, invited guests and dignitaries will join the soccer community in celebrating the auspicious occasion.

A five acre plot of land in Matavera on the main island of Rarotonga was selected for the goal project with Vuksich & Borich contracted to commence land clearing and pegging during the initial stage following the ground breaking ceremony.

According to FIFA Goal Development Officer, Glenn Turner, the goal project should be near completed by December this year. When it does, it will become a hub for football development with the CIFA office set to relocate to Matavera.

The Cook Islands goal project will include two international standard pitches, one of which will be sand carpeted with underground irrigation, fully drained. Facilities will include an administration office for the CIFA, an education centre for seminars and conferences, a national training centre and accommodation capable of hosting up to 30 players and officials.

Photo: The surrounding land in Matavera will soon be turned into a hub of football education that will accelerate development in the island nation