Chung, along with FIFA Development Officer Glenn Turner delivered a range of football equipment to the Tonga Football Federation as part of the FIFA Women’s Football Development Programme.
“Women’s football development is an important element of what we are trying to achieve for not only the game in our region, but in addressing social issues we face.
“Domestic violence, health issues, gender bias and access to education are sometimes limited but with increasing numbers of women participating in football we can address some of these challenges – that’s why this equipment is symbolic and these new leagues are important,” Chung says.
Chung saw the Papua New Guinea women’s national team win three consecutive South Pacific Games football titles between 2003 and 2011 but acknowledges football cannot solve all of soceities ills.
“We are realistic. There is only so much football can do and there is more action required from government and non-government agencies.
“It is my hope that this equipment makes a small difference and these new leagues are successful,” Chung says.
FIFA provides support for women’s football competitions and leagues at the national level to ensure female player development and increase the number of women’s football leagues around the world.
The three pillars of support philosophy incorporates football equipment, expertise and financial assistance.
TFA women’s development officer Adelaide Tuivailala says having the support of FIFA and OFC has boosted the women’s game in Tonga.
The equipment provided included footballs, bibs, football bags, players’ equipment including kit, boots and shin-guards.
“All of the teams taking part in these new leagues were incredibly excited and grateful to receive this assistance,” Tuivailala says.
Two areas are set to benefit from the programme – Tongatapu and Vava’u – with two separate leagues one for senior women’s and the other an U-16 league.
“It is not easy to promote women’s football in our country but this support is a welcome incentive to encourage more women to get involved.”
With various reasons forcing the postponement of the league start dates, Tuivailala says she is proud to finally see the competition kick-off.
“Tongatapu has started their competition and Vava’u is scheduled to get underway in the first week of November,” she says.
“We are already seeing some really entertaining matches and the women’s teams all look professional in their outfits and are able to train harder thanks to the equipment they have received.”
MATCH DETAILS
FIFA U-17 World Cup UAE 2013
Group B
URUGUAY v NEW ZEALAND
At Ras Al Khaimah
Emirates Stadium
Kick-off: 17h00 (local)

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