Thu, 28 Oct, 2021
Guam: Guam can now claim to have one of the region’s best turf pitches.
The island’s presence in AFC and FIFA has helped secure funds for world-class facilities and constant training for players and coaches.
FIFA President Joseph S. Blatter on 9 December 2011 made a first ever visit to Guam by a FIFA president and inaugurated two Goal projects -- a football turf field and football turf mini-pitches -- located at the headquarters of the Guam Football Association (GFA). These are the third and fourth Goal projects to benefit the western Pacific island.
AFC Acting President Zhang Jilong, during the inauguration ceremony, said: "The inauguration of two more Goal projects is proof of the great collaboration and cooperation between FIFA and the Guam Football Association. It is a pact of friendship between football loving Guam and FIFA.
"These facilities will help develop football in your country and help you to uphold the true values of football."
GFA has also brought in a highly licensed coach, Gary White, the Technical Director of Washington Youth Soccer, to help push the island’s football programme, in its relatively small size, even further.
“Guam has a big potential with its size and location,” observed White, a first-time visitor to Guam and a UEFA “A” Licence coach.
“Some may think that Guam’s small size is a disadvantage, but it really isn’t. Since it is small and concentrated, there’s a better focus on players. Also, Guam is located near many countries with long-established football programmes.
“Facilities are a massive bonus for any programme, and Guam’s facility is better than any other facility I’ve ever seen in a developing country. GFA President Richard Lai, too, plays a massive role in advancing the sport further in Guam as part of the AFC Executive Committee,” White added.