Auckland, 14 February 2004: The Oceania Football Confederation would like to announce the resignation of long serving General Secretary, Ms Josephine King, who advised at today’s meeting of the OFC executive committee in Auckland that she would be stepping down.

Ms King will now help ease the transition of her departure by remaining in an advisory role over the following weeks before her resignation becomes effective.

Ms King felt the timing of her resignation was right and will now move on to new challenges. She is also looking forward to spending more time with her family who have taken a secondary role since she came into the position in 1987.

“After 17 years in the job it was time for a change both personally and for the organisation,” said Ms King.

“It will be a good opportunity for fresh blood to come into the position and take the management of OFC in a new direction.”

Ms King says she has enjoyed her time working with the OFC and was proud of her contribution to the development of the game over the years.

“It has been a wonderful and unique experience for me,” she remarked.

“There have been many changes over the years and it is satisfying to see progress that has been made in the various member countries.”

On behalf of the OFC executive committee, acting president Mr Tautulu Roebeck paid tribute to Ms King for her years of service.

“Ms King has made a vital contribution to the confederation which we are all grateful for so we wish her well in her future endeavours,” said Mr Roebeck.

The OFC Development Manager, Mr Tai Nicholas, was named as acting General Secretary until a permanent appointment is made at the next OFC executive committee meeting which follows the 18th Ordinary Congress in Auckland, New Zealand on 20 March 2004.