The talented Cook Islands U19 Women's football team left for Fiji on early Sunday, where they will proudly represent the country in the highly anticipated Oceania Football Confederation (OFC) U19 Women's Championship.

This prestigious regional tournament brings together the finest young footballers from across Oceania, showcasing their skills and passion for the sport. The players will undoubtedly give their all as they strive for glory and a chance to make their mark on the international stage.

The team embarked on their journey during the early hours of Sunday morning, travelling to New Zealand with plans to catch the first available flight to Fiji upon arrival.

Head coach Tuka Tisam left a day ahead of everyone else, aiming to put the finishing touches on the team’s training arrangements. Assistant coach Mii Savage, manager Kataraina Piri, and assistant coach Debora Pukerua are also part of the team. The management team will be joined by Catherine Lal in Fiji, who will serve as the team’s physiotherapist during the tournament.

The team has been training under the guidance of Tisam and Savage since February.

Before departing for Fiji, Savage expressed optimism, stating “the improvement of each individual will be evident during the tournament. The dedication of each player towards their training sessions highlights their determination to reach the finals”.

The team, consisting of 21 players and five management members, is thrilled to welcome new members. Joining the team from Australia is Daniella Casey Poila, a talented athlete currently part of the Queensland Academy of Sports. In preparation for the team’s arrival in Auckland, Poila arrived a day early to eagerly await her teammates.

In addition, Cook Islands Football Association is excited to have Victoria Fatiaki accompanying the team upon their arrival in Auckland. Fatiaki is a force to be reckoned with on the field as well, being a standout football player for Puaikura Football Club.

Esther David of Puaikura FC and Vaipae FC, together with Adriana Hauser from Tuapapa Maraerenga FC and Vaipae FC, form a formidable duo in football. They arrived in Rarotonga from Aitutaki last Friday to participate in a final training session with their team. Despite the challenges of training alongside their competitors, this pair has managed to excel, thanks in part to their dedication to self-improvement and passion for football. With the support of David’s father, they have honed their skills and developed a dynamic presence on the field that few can match.

Teammates of Titikaveka FC Te Atarua Raina, Jennifer Short, and Penina Katuke are thrilled to join the Team. Their enthusiasm and dedication promise to make a significant impact on the squad’s performance. As a cohesive unit, these talented athletes are ready to showcase their skills and bring triumph to the team.

Puaikura Football Club president Tuaine Taio-Fatiaki gathered with families to offer their best wishes to five of the club’s players participating in an upcoming tournament. The talented members, Abrihana McBirney Enoka, Matilda Auua, Te Upoko Tuariki, Kimberley Philip, and Esther David, were bid farewell and received heartfelt well-wishes for their journey and competition.

Meanwhile, Avatiu Football Club’s Anzia Tere and Tara Mitchell have been selected to represent the Cook Islands in the upcoming tournament, showcasing their skills and contributing to the national team’s efforts.

Tia Strickland, Jan Marie Taia, C-Jay Rimamotu, and Adriana Hauser are all valuable members of the Tupapa Maraerenga Football Club, bringing unique skills and qualities to the team.

Hereatea Taiarui-Mapu, Kimberly Uini, Tailei Noovao-Blake, and Tearoa Rouru, members of the Matavera Football Club, eagerly anticipate their participation in the U19 tournament. With their eyes set on achieving outstanding results throughout the competition, they are prepared to deliver top-notch performances on the field.

Mavis Makara, a rising star on the Nikao Sokattak Football Club, continues to impress with her natural talent and skill on the field. Every time she steps out to play, her abilities shine through, proving just how invaluable she is to the team.

The national team’s first match is against Tahiti on Saturday at 5pm (Cook Islands time).

• CIFA Media