Photo Credit: FFA

The Fiji Football Association (Fiji FA) has hosted a landmark two-day FIFA Club Licensing workshop, focused on advancing women’s football in the region.

The event, hosted on September 30 – October 1, at Fiji FA Headquarters in Vatuawaqa brought together 35 Fiji FA key stakeholders, experts and women’s football club representatives from clubs across Fiji to discuss and strategise the implementation of a robust women’s club licensing system.

The workshop garnered significant support, thanks to the delivery, led by FIFA Club Licensing Expert Andres Portabella. Andres expressed his confidence in the success of the women’s club licensing system as a result of this workshop.

“Having met the women’s football club representatives in Fiji, I truly believe the women’s club licensing system will be a complete success. I am very thankful for the great work done by the entire team at Fiji FA to organize this two-day workshop. The future is bright for women’s football in Fiji,” he said.

You can view an extended FFA interview with Andres below.

The FIFA Club Licensing workshop provided a platform for attendees to delve into vital topics such as club management, youth development, infrastructure and financial sustainability. The event facilitated discussions on the latest international standards, best practices and success stories from around the globe, aiming to empower women’s football clubs in Fiji and help to set criteria for possible future Club Licensing Systems.

Fiji FA Club Licensing Manager, Shweta Shankar expressed excitement about the hosting of the workshop.

“This workshop signifies a pivotal moment for women’s football in Fiji. We are honored to host this event in collaboration with FIFA, and we are committed to ensuring that women’s football in our nation thrives. By implementing a strong club licensing system, we are laying the foundation for a brighter future for our female football players, coaches, and administrators,” Shankar said.

The OFC extends its gratitude to FIFA and all participants for their support and dedication to elevating women’s football in Fiji.

This workshop marks a significant step toward creating a sustainable and competitive environment for women’s football clubs, ultimately contributing to the growth of the sport at the national domestic league level.

For more information on FIFA Club Licensing, please click here.