Port Vila, Vanuatu – President Lambert Maltock graced the commissioning service held at the VFF Teouma Academy yesterday, bidding farewell to the Vanuatu U-19 Women’s team as they embarked on their journey to Fiji. The team is set to compete in the OFC U-19 Women’s Championship, scheduled to take place from June 21 to July 8, 2023.
President Maltock expressed his heartfelt congratulations to the young athletes for their commitment and sacrifice in leaving their families and homes in the provinces to serve their nation on the football field. He acknowledged their selection through the Vanuatu Football Federation (VFF) youth program, which aims to elevate women’s football to the same level of recognition as men’s football in the country.
“We want football to reach every province and island, not just Port Vila and Luganville,” President Maltock emphasized. He highlighted the team’s participation in the championship as a pivotal moment in the decentralization program of football in Vanuatu. Despite the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, we recruited the best players from to represent the country.
Addressing the team, President Maltock encouraged the players to seize the opportunity to learn from their coaches, stay resilient, and believe in their dreams. He emphasized that this experience would not only make them better players but also champions who can inspire future generations. President Maltock emphasized the significance of the team’s journey from playing in their clubs and provinces to representing their country on an international stage.
“This is your first experience, so give it your best. Play with pride for your country,” President Maltock encouraged. He also highlighted the potential for the players to progress to the Vanuatu U-20 team and even the Olympic team in the future, showcasing the bright prospects that lie ahead.
The commissioning service concluded with a prayer led by Graig Vuke, who quoted Jeremiah 29:11, providing spiritual guidance and inspiration for the team’s upcoming journey.
As the Vanuatu U-19 Women’s team departs for Fiji, they carry the hopes and aspirations of their nation. The entire country stands united in support of the team, wishing them success and hoping for their remarkable performance in the OFC U-19 Women’s Championship.
We extend our best wishes to the Vanuatu U-19 Women’s team, urging them to give their all and make their country proud.
