The trip is a chance for the girls from Avalon to practice their own football skills against Vanuatu’s best women’s teams, but the main objective is to assist Vanuatu Football Federation (VFF) with the promotion of the game among young women.
“For the past two years we have seen the impact of that partnership as participation in our women’s football programmes increases,” says VFF women’s football development officer Rorona Kalsakau.
“This year the group will tour Luganville and will be assisting schools and communities in line with the VFF women’s department work plan.”
As well as encouragement and promotion from the visiting girls, support will come in the form of football equipment.
To welcome the Avalon Girl’s team back to Vanuatu, a small function has been scheduled on Friday, 27 June at the Port Vila Stadium Conference room.
The event coincides with the departure of Vanuatu U-20 Women’s coach Tom McDonald, who will lead the side in a friendly against the visiting Avalon side that same day.
Australian McDonald coached the side during its appearance at the 2014 OFC U-20 Women’s Championship earlier this year, and has also been a strong advocate for the development of women’s football during his time in Vanuatu.
His services to VFF and the women’s game especially will be sorely missed and VFF will use the occasion to thank him for his service and contribution to football in the country.
Avalon Girl’s itinerary
26 June – Arrive in Port Vila
27 June – Friendly with Vanuatu U-20 women
28 June -Friendly with Erakor U-15
29 June – Attend church service at Melemaat Presbyterian Church before flying to Santo
30 June – Visit Rowani School in Chapui area
1 July – Visit Santo East and Luganville East Schools
2 July – Visit Sainte Anne School in Port Orly
3 July – Visit Sainte Therese School in Luganville before flying back to Port Vila
For more on Vanuatu football go to www.vanuafoot.vu

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