Talent identification a key focus at schools championship

The Extra Fiji Secondary Schools Football Championship is playing a crucial role in identifying emerging talent for the Fiji Football Association (Fiji FA). National coaches are actively observing the competition in Labasa, viewing it as an ideal opportunity to scout players from across the country.

“

We are here with the other technical staff and FIFA talent coach. We are looking for talent, and at Fiji FA our main aim is we want to give every talent a chance.

Sunil Kumar, Fiji FA's Head of Talent Development and head coach for the Under-16 and Under-17 teams, highlighted the tournament's importance. "We are here with the other technical staff and FIFA talent coach. We are looking for talent, and at Fiji FA our main aim is we want to give every talent a chance," Kumar stated. The association is committed to casting a wide net, ensuring that promising players from all districts and zones are given an opportunity.

With Fiji having qualified for the upcoming FIFA Under-17 World Cup, the focus on talent identification is intensified. Kumar emphasized the need to leave no potential prospect overlooked. "We have qualified for the FIFA Under-17 World Cup and we don’t want to leave any talent," he said. Beyond scouting new players, Fiji FA officials are also tracking the progress of athletes already within the national development system, monitoring their current players who are in the database.

“

We know there are schools out here from different zones and different districts, so we want to give every talent a chance.

The ultimate objective is to identify players who can progress through the ranks and eventually represent Fiji on the international stage. The championship serves as a vital stepping stone in this process, providing a platform for both new discoveries and the continued development of existing national prospects.

“

We have qualified for the FIFA Under-17 World Cup and we don’t want to leave any talent.