Discipline is the foundation of any sport says Minister for Industry, Trade, Tourism, Local Government, Housing and Community Hon Premila Kumar while officially opening the 2019 INKK Mobile Battle of the Giants Tournament in Nausori on Friday.
“Recently, I read in the papers that some players were reprimanded for indiscipline. This raises an important question on the attitude of some players who disregard discipline and bring disrepute to their district their coach, to their parents and to their fans,”
“If you ask any sports person, they will tell you the key to success, is discipline. Discipline is always number one on the list,” Kumar said.
Kumar said discipline build sports persons’ character to help them set their mind to achieve their goals.
“It is important that players when selected to play at any level, must understand the huge investment that football clubs, FFA, private sector and Government makes for the betterment of football or any sport for that matter.”
She acknowledged the support private sector provided to football and other sports through tournament sponsorship.
“However, at the district levels, the private sector has not been so forthcoming in providing support through sponsorship. Perhaps there are restrictions by the parent body, which excludes district level sponsorships other than those who are major sponsors at national level. FFA should assist districts to secure sponsorship as well.”
“The Fijian Government in the 2019-2020 national budget announced 150% tax deductions for a minimum cash contribution of $15,000 to sports club.”
“I encourage the private sector to take advantage of this opportunity and assist clubs around the country. Your support will go a long way, in developing sports in Fiji,” she said.
“I thank the players and spectators for their love for football and commend the FFA and district associations for their enthusiasm and commitment. Play and compete hard and fairly, and may the best team win,” she concluded.
