Girls encouraged to join in football festival

CONCACAF Under-15 Girls’ Championship, August 2014

(CNS): The Cayman Islands Football Association (CIFA) will host its inaugural Girls’ Grassroots Football Festival on Saturday as part of the goal to encourage more girls to take part in the game. “We hope to boost the women’s football programme by starting to teach our girls and young ladies about the basics of the game, and the value and benefits that football and sports can instill in their lives,” said CIFA First Vice President Bruce Blake.

Cayman has already been a host to a number of CONCACAF women’s tournaments, including the inaugural CONCACAF Under-15 Girls’ Championship in August 2014 and the CONCACAF Under-20 Women’s Qualifiers in January 2014. Officials hope the festival will become an annual event.

“The Women’s Committee has created a plan to develop the women’s football programme in Cayman, providing further opportunities to empower girls on and off the field. We look forward to implementing a Girls’ Grassroots Festival during each quarter of 2015 so that we provide consistent support to our young ladies,” said CIFA Women’s Football Committee Chairperson Martha Godet.

During the session, girls will learn techniques and football skills from high level instructors. The one-day event is open to girls aged 4-12 and uniforms will be provided courtesy of CONCACAF.

It will take place at the Truman Bodden Sports Complex from 9am-12pm. Space is limited to 200 participants and registration is on a first-come, first-serve basis. Those interested should email mgodet63@gmail.com by 22 January.