OFC President Reynald Temarii has spent time in one of Asia/Pacific’s smallest territories – Guam – to celebrate a significant milestone in the island’s football history.
A ribbon ceremony took place at the Guam Football Association (GFA) in Harmon last Saturday to celebrate the completion of brand new facilities during which the OFC President answered questions about Guam’s advancements in football.
Temarii believes the likelihood of Guam hosting FIFA-sanctioned friendly matches has now increased due to the improved playing facilities.
“Several advances have been made including this new facility which will make it easier to host regional tournaments,” said Temarii.
The OFC President also praised GFA President Richard Lai for his ongoing commitment to strengthen the game in Guam.
“President Lai is focused on the development of youth football and has helped to attract more and more players to the game. His success has been well recognized and after only a short time as President, he became one of the Executive Members of the Asian Football Confederation (AFC). This is an impressive feat.”
GFA was founded in 1975 and became affiliated with the AFC in 1992 and the world governing body FIFA in 1992. OFC has established links with the association as a close neighbour in the region.
Situated in the Western Pacific Ocean, Guam is a US Territory with a population of approximately 168,000 (UN 2005).