Rarotonga can expect to see more youth out and about on the island as Pa Enua teams arrive here for the Kia Orana Youth Football Festival which starts this Saturday.

The last of the three outer islands teams – Mangaia – will be arriving today, bringing a total of 178 participants from the Pa Enua.

First team arrived from Atiu on Wednesday morning, followed by teams from

Aitutaki, Mitiaro and Mauke.

Cook Islands Football Association said with close to 450 participating in the upcoming tournament, the event is set to be one of the largest football events to take place this year.

The opening ceremony will be held tonight at Edgewater Resort and Spa, and attended by invited guests, including players, officials and representatives, along with CIFA officials.

The U18 women will kick off the first match on Saturday followed by the U18 men.

The CIFA Complex will host three games on Saturday and Takitumu School field will host two games played from 12pm.

A $3 entry fee has been set for all matches held at the CIFA complex while all matches at Takitumu School and Victoria Park in Tupapa will have free access.   

The festival is designed to allow CIFA’s technical team to identify prospects for its Academy. The selected players will be put through development and training, to represent the country in future international events.

In a statement, CIFA said: “Previous years have proven a success with identifying lead players who have gone on to represent the country. This festival provides a great opportunity for players from the outer islands to portray their skills and gain further development in football.”

Pools

Under 18 Men’s Pool A: Aitutaki, Mauke, Atiu; Under 18 Men’s Pool B: Tupapa Maraerenga, Mangaia, Avatiu. Under 18 Women's Pool A: Aitutaki, Atiu, Avatiu, Titikaveka; Under 18 Women's Pool B: Tupapa Maraerenga, Puaikura, Mangaia. Under 15 Boys: Titikaveka, Mitiaro, Aitutaki, Mangaia; Under 15 Girls: Titikaveka, Aitutaki, Mitiaro, Mangaia.