Photo Credit: Avatiu FC Media
Cook Islands are another nation who will be fielding a club for the first time ever in the OFC Women’s Champions League in the Solomon Islands. Avatiu FC made history late last year, winning the Rarotonga Round Cup to qualify for the tournament. It was their first title since the introduction of senior women’s football in the Cook Islands in 1999.
With this year’s OFC Women’s Champions League expanding from the five teams seen in Papua New Guinea last year to eight sides in Honiara, it has provided the opportunity for more OFC Member Associations to be represented, and 2024 presents an incredible chance for Avatiu FC to make an impact in women’s football in the region.
The challenge will be a significant one. Avatiu FC have been drawn in Group A, that includes last year’s runners-up Hekari United of Papua New Guinea and host nation side Henderson Eels. Fellow newcomer Tafea FC of Vanuatu completes the group line-up.
Head Coach Terry Piri is acutely aware of just how big an opportunity this is for their side.
“Heading into this tournament we expect our team to embrace the challenges ahead with determination and unity.
“We’ve prepared the best we can, and we anticipate our debut to be marked by competitive spirit, and a drive to achieve respectable results and earn the respect of our fellow competitors,” they said.
Player to Watch
Centre-back Susan Williams is the rock that much of Avatiu’s play is built on. She has a wealth of experience, including captaining the Cook Islands side at the South Pacific Games in Honiara late last year.
Her ability to provide a steady and controlling presence in defence will be a key determining factor in how well her side perform this month.
