One of the most popular soccer events will be held during the Auckland Anniversary weekend at Bill McKinlay Stadium in Panmure.
New Zealand Fiji Football Inc is organising the ‘International Veteran’s Tournament 2013’ to award the prestigious ‘J D Maharaj Memorial Cup’ and the ‘3 Ds Cup’ for winners respectively in the ‘Over 35’ and ‘Over 40’ categories.
Organising Committee Chairman Rajesh Jattan said that competing teams in the ‘Over 35’ matches are NZ Lautoka Masters, Lautoka Veterans, Team Nadi, Rewa, Levuka, Hamilton, Melbourne, Namaka, Tavua, NZ Labasa, Dav Old Boys and NZ Masters.
According to him, NZ Lautoka Masters, AK Stars, Delta Tigers, AK Masters, Levuka, Hamilton Melbourne Western Ba, Suva, Ba, Naitasiri are featured in the ‘Over 40’ category.
Professional teams
Mr Jattan said that the team from Melbourne and local teams are already undergoing an exacting training programme.
“They are determined to improve their performance,” he said.
Mr Jattan said, a number of teams, including those from Fiji and Australia are in talks with other Committee.
“We will shortly announce the rules, fixtures and other details,” he said.
He promised professional soccer as well as a Carnival of food, fun and entertainment.
There will be something for everyone in the family.
Robert Khan, Managing Director of Radio Tarana, main sponsors of the Tournament, said that the five-day event this year will be bigger and better.
He said that as a founder and member of the board of directors of New Zealand Fiji Football Inc, he was gratified by the growth of the event over the years.
This Tournament has become a cornerstone of New Zealand Soccer, highlighting the festive mood and generating goodwill and friendship.
“I thank all the participating teams, especially those from overseas. Our Organisation recently hosted the inaugural Pacific Cup matches and the forthcoming Veterans Tournaments will add value to the game and to our organisation,” he said.
Mr Jattan said that the organisation was passionate about football.
“Our association is involved in organising a number of other major events, including the Veterans Tournament, Pacific Cup, IDC Fiji FACT and Battle of Giants. We enjoy an extremely cordial relationship with Fiji Football Association.
“We are also planning a tour of Under 19 and Under 20 teams to Fiji. These will be followed by Under 35 and Under 40 teams. These visits will enable selectors from Fiji Football Association to spot talent,” he said.
Mr Jattan said that his association will consider participating in ethnic tournaments organised by the Fiji Football Association, including Sanatan matches.
With reporting by Rajesh Jattan
Contact details: Rajesh Jattan: 021-414128; Sachin Dutt on 021717514.
