The Vanuatu Women’s U16 team made their debut in the Avalon W16 Tour to Vanuatu today. The match, held at Port Vila’s VFF Freshwater Stadium, marked the beginning of an exciting journey for the girls ahead.
The Avalon W16 Tour, which has been a tradition since 2012, includes two matches scheduled for July 6th and 8th, 2023, in Port Vila. The Avalon team, hailing from Barrenjoey High School in Avalon Beach, Sydney, Australia, is thrilled to return after a hiatus caused by the COVID-19 pandemic.
In today’s match, both teams showcased their best talent, providing valuable experience for the Avalon team and the Vanuatu U16 team. With strategic player rotations and a shared goal to score, the teams delivered an exhilarating performance.
For the Vanuatu U16 team, this match is of immense significance as they prepare for the forthcoming 2023 OFC U16 Championship in Tahiti, scheduled for September. Their dedicated coach, Nesta Moli from Luganville, has played a vital role in shaping these young players. Drawing from her experience working with Luganville youth teams, Coach Nesta possesses the expertise to develop their potential.
The Vanuatu girls, scouted from Suango School in Mele Village and Erakor School, demonstrated immense growth. Margaret Iati, the Vanuatu Football Federation (VFF) Women’s Development Officer, acknowledged their initial lack of experience, with some girls even encountering a football for the first time in the VFF women’s football development program. However, under Coach Nesta’s patient guidance, they have made remarkable progress and they have proved that in their game scoring two goals against the Avalon team.
“Many of these girls had never played football before, let alone touched a ball. However, in our women’s football development programs, Nesta is a master and possesses all the skills necessary to work with girls in this age category. Today, their exceptional performance stands as a proof to Coach Nesta’s dedication in developing their skills,” said Margaret Iati.
The VFF Technical Director extended a warm welcome to the Avalon team and expressed anticipation for their upcoming match on Saturday, July 7th, at Freshwater Stadium. The match, scheduled for 10 am, promises another thrilling opportunity for both teams to showcase their skills and exhibit their passion for football.
The Avalon W16 Tour to Vanuatu continues to provide a platform for cultural exchange, skill development, and the promotion of women in sports.
