Heads of Fiji Football Association departments have spent the start of the week in a three-day FIFA Forward Development Programme at the Fiji FA Headquarters in Vatuwaqa

Led in Fiji by FIFA Development Officer Shaun Easthope, the development programme is a “step change” for global football development and a way to share the success of the FIFA World Cup with member associations.

“It is built on three principles to provide 360 degree, tailor-made support for football development in each of our member associations and the six confederations,” he said.

“We aim to improve the impact and efficiency of our investment in development, achieving better and more sustainable results so that football can thrive everywhere,” he added.

The programme brings together all FIFA football project support into one customised contract of agreed objectives and a development plan to meet the specific needs and challenges of each association.

“This means our member associations receive comprehensive and intelligent support, depending on their circumstances and the priorities and objectives they set for themselves, so that we make the most out of every dollar spent on football,” Easthope said.

“We will focus on priority areas for the growth of global football, such as playing infrastructure, women’s and youth football, and domestic competitions.

“We will reward associations for fulfilling a range of criteria that we believe are necessary for the sustainable and responsible management of football at national level.”

Joined by FIFA Assistant Development Officer Lyn Shirley, Easthope has now turned his focus to training Fiji FA in development strategic planning.

For more on Fiji football visit fijifootball.com.fj