With one Group A match remaining in Apia on Wednesday, coach Jose Figueira and his squad met with New Zealand High Commissioner to Samoa, Jackie Frizelle.
Frizelle, appointed to the role in 2013, was delighted to host the team and players’ families before their match against the Cook Islands.
“It was great the New Zealand side could take time out from their busy schedule to pay us a visit,” Frizelle said.
“The team have performed with distinction so far in the competition and they are excellent representatives of New Zealand on and off the pitch.”
The New Zealand Aid programme is considering adding their support to Oceania Football’s Just Play development programme. Frizelle says participation in sports contributes to better health as well as community and leadership development. Samoa also benefits from significant remittances from elite sports people in other codes and there is potential to extend this to football.
“The Oceania U-17 Championship tournament has been an excellent showcase for football and we’d like to inspire children in the Pacific to participate in the global game, with all the health and social benefits that brings.”
New Zealand U-17 coach José Figueira was grateful to Frizelle, her family and staff for hosting the team on their recovery day.
“Not only was it a great day out for the players, staff and families – a chance to refresh before the final group game and trip to American Samoa for the semi finals – but it was also fascinating to hear the role football is playing in New Zealand’s development work in the Pacific.”
New Zealand complete their Group A schedule against the Cook Islands on Wednesday at 1pm (NZ time).