THE Western Football Association (WFA) is yet to finalise its events for the year as it still awaits budgetary allocations and logistical arrangements from Solomon Islands Football Federation (SIFF).
WFA President John Smith Pitabelama confirmed in an interview with Star Sport last week that the executive committee are yet to convene their first official meeting.
According to Pitabelama, once the meeting is convened, the executive members will discuss and map out the schedule for football activities in the Western Province.
He said the finalisation of the schedule is largely dependent on funding allocations from SIFF.
“The rescheduling of WFA sporting events follows FIFA’s decision last November to upgrade the John F Kennedy Stadium, a milestone development for football development in the region.
“However, the progress of planned activities has been hindered by delays in the signing process for a new contractor for the long-awaited upgrade of the JFK Stadium in Gizo.
“No sporting events occurred last year due to the proposed upgrading of the JFK stadium. Because of this we did not hold any sporting activities,’’ Pitabelama added.
In response to these challenges, the WFA is considering an alternative venue to host its football events, whilst the JFK Stadium remains under renovation for this year.
Discussions are currently underway regarding the use of the Noro field, which is owned by the National Fisheries Development (NFD).
“The successful implementation of this proposal will require further consultations between the Noro Football Association (NFA), NFD, and the WFA executive committee to ensure mutual agreement on the terms of use,” Pitabelama said.
Meanwhile, anticipation remains high for the refurbishment of JFK Stadium, which is expected to commence either this month or the next.
Football enthusiasts and stakeholders in the Western Province are eager to see the upgrade works commence as they will significantly enhance the region’s football infrastructure and provide better facilities for players and fans alike.
By ULUTAH GINA
Solomon Star, Gizo
