The Fiji Football Association (Fiji FA) is set to launch a residential elite academy in Labasa, marking a significant step in the development of young football talent in the region.

Beginning on January 28, 2025, 16 promising players aged 14 to 16 will begin their journey at the academy.

This initiative aims to provide comprehensive training and education, enabling young footballers to excel both on and off the field.

Sunil Kumar, Head of Talent Development at Fiji FA, emphasized the academy’s importance in fostering future stars for the national team.

“This initiative will likely help develop future stars for the national team, giving them access to top-level training and support,” said Kumar.

The academy will initially operate in partnership with Khalsa College, utilizing the school’s facilities for both education and training. This arrangement will continue until the academy’s dedicated grounds, currently under construction with a $2 million investment, are completed.

Kumar also highlighted the broader significance of the project within Fiji FA’s youth development efforts.

“Fiji FA has been actively enhancing youth football through initiatives like the Talent Development League, known as the McDonald’s Talent Development League. This league features age groups from U9 to U15 and includes 160 teams from 11 districts, with over 2,500 newly registered players,” Kumar explained.

The academy, made possible through the FIFA Talent Development Scheme (TDS), aligns with Fiji FA’s long-term goal of improving football infrastructure and nurturing young talent. The scheme, focused on providing opportunities for every talent, will officially launch in March.

Kumar also expressed gratitude to Khalsa College for their critical support.

“We’ve met with the college’s management, and their support has been crucial in getting this project off the ground,” Kumar said.

This academy represents a significant milestone for football in Fiji, offering young players an environment that combines academic excellence and high-performance training.