OFC Insider Magazine Issue 1

Just Play takes Peace and Sport Award OFC Executive Committee Outcomes Making a stand for women in football — Sarai Bareman Ngahue Reserve work underway Champions League venues in the spotlight: Ba, Lautoka

OFC Insider

It gives me great pleasure to write this welcome message as the OFC launches OFC Insider its very own bi-monthly magazine.

2013 has been a very busy year for the OFC both on and off the pitch and we have a huge responsibility to develop the game at all levels but this does not end with courses and competitions – it extends to using the power of football for human development and bringing hope to the less privileged.

The OFC has excelled in this area with the Pacific Youth and Sports Conference in Noumea and our sports development programme Just Play. The success of Just Play was recognised when OFC won the Federation of the Year award at the Peace and Sport Awards in Monaco. The success of the Pacific Youth and Sports Conference in Noumea was particularly notable with pacific youth gathering in New Caledonia to address social issues facing our people.

The future looks bright for the OFC and the ground-breaking ceremony that marked the turning of the first sod of grass at our future headquarters in Ngahue in the presence of our community partners, Member Associations and FIFA delegates is a beacon of hope for generations to come.

There were a host of memorable performances by OFC representatives on the world stage including Tahiti’s fourth place finish at the FIFA Beach Soccer World Cup they also hosted and a brave showing at the FIFA Confederations Cup. In club football, Auckland City delivered another credible performance at the FIFA Club World Cup despite losing 2-1 to the host nation club in the playoff for the quarter-finals. Their record breaking third consecutive OFC Champions League title also sets a high standard for the rest of the region to aspire to.

OFC was represented at two other FIFA events when New Zealand sides took part in the U-20 and U-17 Men’s World Cups in Turkey and the UAE respectively, while, in an historic occurrence teams from both the AFC and OFC contested the first ever OFC Futsal Invitational won by Australia.

The FIFA World Cup™ in Brazil came to an end for the OFC when New Zealand’s All Whites were comprehensively defeated over two legs by a resurgent Mexico. Our region was also represented at these events off the pitch where our match officials continue to make outstanding progress.

Our focus on developing the game continues with the OFC Executive Committee meeting set down for March 29 in Auckland, New Zealand.

To our readers, stakeholders, members and affiliates, partners, whoever and wherever you may be, I would like to wish you the best for the coming year.

Yours in football

David Chung OFC President FIFA Vice-President PNGFA President

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OFC Insider

IN THIS ISSUE

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OFC EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE MEETING IN AUCKLAND

JUST PLAY NETS PEACE AND SPORT AWARD IN MONACO

NGAHUE RESERVE WORK UNDERWAY

The OFC Executive Committee met in Auckland, New Zealand, where, among other things, it approved a number of key decisions for 2014.

Thanks to the success of OFC’s Just Play programme, the OFC won the Federation of the Year at the Peace and Sport Awards in Monaco. OFC Head of Social Responsibility Franck Castillo explains the importance of this milestone achievement.

The first sod of turf was turned at Ngahue Reserve –we talk to the key stakeholders as representatives from Auckland Council, FIFA and the New Zealand Government take centre stage. We also reflect on two FIFA Development Seminars held in Auckland, New Zealand, in the latter half of 2013.

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PACIFIC YOUTH AND SPORTS CONFERENCE INTERVIEW: Franck CASTILLO

MAKING A STAND FOR WOMEN IN FOOTBALL

NEWS FROM THE OFC MEMBER ASSOCIATIONS

OFC Insider talks to Football Federation Samoa CEO Sarai Bareman at PYASC about her experiences as a female administrator in football and reflects on the impact women’s football made in Oceania in 2013.

A wrap up of football news from around the Oceania Football Confederation.

We speak to OFC Head of Social Responsibility Franck Castillo about another successful Pacific Youth and Sport Conference in Noumea, New Caledonia, and ask where next for PYASC.

Official publication of the Oceania Football Confederation The views expressed in signed articles are not necessarily the official views of the OFC. The reproduction of articles published in OFC Insider is authorised, provided the source is indicated.

Produced by: OFC Media and Communications Cover photo: OFC Media Photography: Phototek

OFC Insider

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2014 / April 7-15 With the OFC Champions League on the horizon, OFC Insider showcases the two Fijian cities that will play host to Oceania’s top football clubs for nine days in April.

LAUTOKA — Churchill Park, Lautoka Known as the Sugar City because of its sugar cane belt areas, the clubs playing at Churchill Park will be hoping their fortunes are as sweet as the town’s reputation.

The main Lautoka Sugar Mill is the city’s biggest employer by far. Built for the Colonial Sugar Refining Company by workers from India and the Solomon Islands between 1899 and 1903, it hires some 1,300 employees today.

Other industries include timber milling, garment manufacturing, distillery, brewery, jewellery, blending, steelworks, fishing, hatchery, domestic items, paints, and construction. In 2012 Lautoka was announced as the administration capital of the western division.

The name of the city is derived from two Fijian words meaning “spear hit.”

According to an oral tradition, the name arose following a duel between two chiefs.

As one speared the other, he was reported to have cried “Lautoka!”

A multi-purpose stadium in Lautoka, Fiji, Churchill Park plays host to matches in Group A. It is currently used mostly for football and hosts the home matches of Lautoka FC. The Stadium also hosts international rugby matches such as the Pacific Nations Cup and the Pacific Rugby Cup as well as local rugby competitions such as the Colonial Cup and the Sanyo Cup. The stadium holds 18,000 people but a new embankment was created to cater for 7,000 more people.

BA — Govind Park, Ba If there is proof needed of the commitment local people have for football, you need look no further than the giant soccer ball that is the municipal centre piece and welcomes visitors in to the heart of a town proud of its achievements.

Known as Fiji’s “Soccer Crazy Town”, local club Ba, nicknamed “The Men in Black”, has racked up multiple domestic honours but its not just football that keeps the town ticking over.

Located 37 kilometres from Lautoka and 62 kilometres from Nadi, Ba lies inland from the coast of Viti Levu, Fiji’s largest island.

Ba is an agricultural centre and a popular cultural point for tourists.

Sugar cane has long been the mainstay of the local economy, but some manufacturing projects have been established over the past fifteen years.

Prominent landmarks include the Rarawai Mill (on the outskirts of town) and a large mosque near the river in the heart of the town.

Govind Park, Ba’s home ground, hosted the OFC Champions League final first leg back in 2007, as Ba downed Waitakere United 2-1 before a sell-out crowd, sadly losing the second leg and the tie on the away goals rule.

GROUP A

GROUP B

GROUP C

Waitakere United (New Zealand) Champions 2007, 2008

Nadi (Fiji) Runners-up 1999

Ba (Fiji) Runners-up 2007

Kiwi FC (Samoa)

Auckland City (New Zealand) Champions 2006, 2009, 2011, 2012, 2013

AS Magenta (New Caledonia) Runners-up 2005

AS Pirae (Tahiti) Runners-up 2006 TBC (Solomon Islands)

Junior Football Ferns win OFC U-20 Women’s Championship New Zealand qualified for the FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup Canada 2014 with a 3-0 victory in the closing match of the OFC U-20 Championship at Centre Park in Mangere on Saturday 22 February.

Coach Aaron McFarland was ecstatic to be heading to the U-20 World Cup and savoured the fact it wasn’t an easy ride for his team in qualification.

“PNG came to the game with a lot of energy and made life difficult for us which is exactly what we want,” McFarland told OFC Insider.

“I think a lot of kudos has to go to the island nations where they’re putting a lot of resources into the women’s game and it’s paying dividends.

“Physically they challenged us with their speed of pressing and they wanted to play in possession as well which gave us some challenge so we’re very pleased to come through with the win.”

An early goal by New Zealand’s Belinda Van Noorden on ten minutes and a late strike from substitute Jasmine Pereira four minutes from the end set the Junior Football Ferns on their way.

An unfortunate Papua New Guinea own goal deep into time added on sealed their victory.

Papua New Guinea coach Rachel Wadunah was disappointed not to hold New Zealand to a closer margin but gave credit to a standout performance from her side.

“I’m very impressed with my girls because they could hold New Zealand in the first half to 1-0 and in the second half they did very well to hold New Zealand again, the own goal was unfortunate but otherwise I’m very, very impressed with my girls.

The FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup takes place in Canada 5-24 August.

Winners:

New Zealand

AS Dragon (Tahiti)

Tafea (Vanuatu) Runners-up 2001

Golden Ball:

Meagan Gunemba (PNG)

Golden Boot:

Emma Rolston (NZL) – 4 goals

Amicale (Vanuatu) Runners-up 2009

Hekari United (Papua New Guinea) Champions 2010

Golden Gloves: Tangimausia Ma’afu (TGA) Fairplay Award: Vanuatu

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OFC Insider

OFC Executive Committee The agenda of the OFC Executive Committee meeting held at the Novotel Ascot in Greenlane, Auckland and chaired by the OFC President David Chung, included, in particular, the approval of numerous decisions that set the bar high for an important year in the history of Oceania football.

OFC President David Chung then thanked Federation Tahitienne de Football President Thierry Ariiotima for that nation’s hosting of the FIFA Beach Soccer World Cup in September and October.

“We are grateful for the way Tahiti hosted the FIFA Beach Soccer World Cup, a tournament rated as one of the best and an event that put Oceania on the world map.

“I would like to take this opportunity to thank the FTF for their professionalism. All video content was produced by OFC TV. FIFA was impressed with the professionalism shown and hope to use OFC TV at future tournaments,” Chung said.

Thierry Ariiotima then conveyed FTF’s gratitude for support received from the OFC. “We would like to thank the members of the OFC Executive Committee for the grants that we received from OFC. This World Cup it was important for us to prepare this right and represent Oceania correctly.

“We knew if we weren’t at our best level then all of Oceania would have had a bad image. From everything FIFA told us I think not only Tahiti’s image was enhanced, but the entire Oceania confederation and how we handle such events.”

“If New Zealand can also host the FIFA U-20 World Cup in 2015 successfully we will continue to have a very good profile at FIFA in hosting future events,” Ariiotima said.

Agenda items at the meeting included an update on the Ngahue Reserve project, confirmation of the appointment of Fiji FA President Rajesh Patel to the OFC Executive Committee and an update on the status of departmental matters within the general secretariat and its restructure.

OFC Insider

Meeting in Auckland The next OFC Executive Committee meeting is scheduled for March 29, 2014, in Auckland, New Zealand.

For a full list of outcomes see below.

The OFC Executive Committee also • Approved the minutes of OFC Executive Committee meeting of September.

• Agreed that the OFC qualifying format for future FIFA age group World Cups will be:

• Acknowledged Tahiti’s successful hosting of the FIFA Beach Soccer World Cup 2013.

• Approved the OFC budget for 2014.

· Changed from U-17 and U-20 Championships to U-16 and U-19 Championships to allow successful teams at least one year to prepare for the World Cup.

• Acknowledged OFC’s Head of Social Responsibility Franck Castillo and the Peace and Sport Award won in Monaco for the ‘Just Play’ Programmes contribution to social integration peace and sport.

• Approved the appointment of Fiji FA President Rajesh Patel to the OFC Executive Committee.

• OFC Futsal Invitational to become an annual event with the participation of four OFC Member Associations and up to eight AFC Member Associations in August each year.

Played 4-10 August, 2014, at a venue TBC. • Agreed the OFC Champions League format of 12 teams and to be hosted in Fiji. · Host venues will be Ba, Lautoka and Nadi. · Confirmed competition regulations to be sent out to Member Associations for approval.

· The new age-group format to begin for the OFC U-19 Men’s Championship from May 22 to 30, 2014.

• Approved the OFC Competitions Calendar to 2016 with the host bidding process now underway.

• Approved the OFC President’s Cup for the OFC Champions League winners, OFC Champions League runners-up, two teams from the AFC and two further invitational sides scheduled for November 2014.

• Acknowledged the work of OFC Head of TV Olivier Huc who returns to Tahiti after two years in charge of the department.

• Confirmed the appointment of Gordon Glen Watson as the new OFC Head of Media and Communications.

• Approved restructure of the OFC general secretariat.

• Agreed on the meeting schedule for OFC Executive Meetings for 2014.

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OFC Insider

Just Play nets Peace and Sport Award in Monaco The Oceania Football Confederation won Federation of the Year at the Peace and Sport Awards 2013 in recognition of its Just Play development programme today, presented at a glitzy ceremony in Sporting Monte-Carlo in Monaco.

OFC Head of Social Responsibility and International Relations, Franck Castillo, was in Monaco to receive the award on behalf of the Oceania Football Confederation.

“It’s a big honour for Oceania today and it’s wonderful recognition for all the Just Play managers in each country, the development officers, all the instructors and all 2,600 volunteers who have been trained to deliver the programme to 150,000 children.

“I’m also delighted for all of the Presidents of the Oceania Football Confederation’s Member Associations.

The award pays tribute to a national or international sports federation which has developed a programme that contributes to the development of social integration and peace through sport — which is the basis of the Just Play Programme.

Just Play is an OFC designed programme for children aged 6-12 and is based around structured activity programmes with a focus on education and social development. The distribution of equipment packs containing footballs, cones, bibs, activity manuals and other resources enable children to play football at any time and in any situation.

Volunteers and teachers, who are trained by Oceania Football Confederation in cooperation with its member associations, provide tuition for students on how to develop games skills and lead healthier lives.

Just Play certificates and equipment bags are handed out at the end of each course.

The initiative is led by OFC Head of Social Responsibility Franck Castillo and Technical Coordinator Emmie Sope.

“This award is recognition of the work performed by the entire Just Play team. The Pacific region represents just a fraction of the world’s population — people tend to talk more about what happens in Africa or Asia,” he said.

Peace and Sport was founded in 2007

by Modern Pentathlon Olympic medallist and world champion Joel Bouzou, who is the current President of the organisation.

It works for sustainable peace, throughout the world.

To achieve this, it promotes the practice of structured sport and sporting values to educate young generations and help foster social stability, reconciliation and dialogue between communities.

Peace and Sport intervenes in areas made vulnerable by extreme poverty, recent conflict or lack of social cohesion.

A neutral and apolitical organisation based in Monaco, Peace and Sport is a global initiative under the High Patronage of His Serene Highness Prince Albert II of Monaco.

Castillo believes the Peace and Sport award can lift the profile of the Oceania region and strengthen existing relationships with its partners and stakeholders and develop new opportunities beyond the current ones.

“I do hope people will have a look at the Pacific region more now and it could help to strengthen the relationship we have with the United Nations and other donors. It’s a great way to lift awareness and further the Pacific’s profile in this area,” he said.

Castillo also expressed gratitude to Just Play’s key supporters.

“This was a team effort — I am happy for the OFC President David Chung who has supported Just Play and our partners UEFA, the Government of Australia through AusAID and the Australian Sports and Football Federation Australia.”

The Peace and Sports Awards brought 700 influential decision-makers and high-profile opinion-leaders from world sport governance, politics, International Organisations, NGOs and the private sector, plus academics and top-level athletes from over 100 countries to Monaco.

For three days, the world’s leading figures shared ideas on how sport can bring a tangible contribution to peace processes and peace-building projects around the globe.

OFC Insider

Ngahue Reserve work underway The journey towards creating a regional base for football continued at Ngahue Reserve in St Johns, Auckland continued when a ground breaking ceremony at the seven hectare site which will accommodate the OFC Home of Football took place in September.

The momentous occasion was overseen by OFC President David Chung with representatives from Ngati Whatua, the New Zealand Government, Auckland Council, Korea Football Association, Orakei Local Board and FIFA alongside him.

“This ceremony marked a significant milestone in the history of OFC and signifies the start of the construction of a home for football for Orakei, for Auckland, for New Zealand and for the entire Pacific region,” he said.

Ecstatic to be moving forward with the project, Chung acknowledged key stakeholders whose commitment have realised the project and in particular the local iwi Ngati Whatua and Orakei Local Board.

“The OFC is extremely grateful to the Tangata Whenua and Iwi of Orakei who have given their blessing to enable us to build a home for our Pacific people on their land.

“Desley Simpson and Kit Parkinson and their fellow Board members have offered tremendous support which has been instrumental in OFC securing this land from the Auckland City Council for us,” Chung added.

FIFA General Secretary Jerome Valcke made the trek from Zurich, Switzerland to show his support for OFC and the project.

“The project is important as we are making decisions to see a realisation. It’s the first step of a 20-month period when finally in May 2015 we’ll all be back in New Zealand to open this new home of Oceania,” he said.

“I think it’s very important as it’s not only the home of the 11 Member Associations, but also a place with two football pitches and a place for young people to practice our game, our sport.

“I think Oceania is one of the best examples of how FIFA lead and work in football.

We are always behind you, we will always be behind you because whenever in the past we have supported OFC projects, OFC members, always deliver.”

At government level the message was the same, with Minister for Youth Affairs Nikki Kay saying football can be a valuable tool in combating the wide ranging social issues that affect communities both in New Zealand, and around the Pacific.

“I meet so many young New Zealanders who are passionate, not just about rugby or sailing, but actually passionate about football. So we feel very privileged as a country that we are going to be able to have this facility and I think it will bring people together,” Kaye said.

OFC signed an agreement to lease the Ngahue Reserve site with Auckland Council prior to the ground breaking ceremony which marked the starting point of a project estimated for completion in May 2015 with plans including artificial pitches, administration buildings, changing rooms and car parks.

The decision to support OFC in moving forward was an easy one for Simpson who says the social and community benefits will be exponential both at a local level, and for the country.

“What will happen shortly is great for Auckland, is great for New Zealand and great for our youth,” she said.

“The investment made for our youth and children in Auckland will ensure that this facility will be able to hold events that will encourage children to play football.”

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FIFA Development Seminar a success — Eva Pasquier The completion of two FIFA Development Seminars in Auckland in the last part of 2013 were declared a success by FIFA Development Manager for Oceania Eva Pasquier.

“The main aim of the first seminar was to update the federations on the new programmes and activities that we have, on the governance and reforms that are going to be activated from the previous congresses which will have a lot of impact on the offerings we have and also on the requirements of the federations,” she said.

“Coming together was very important because it’s not only us talking to them, but also them talking to us, and finally them talking amongst themselves because the networking factor of such a seminar is very important.” While measuring the immediate success of the seminar is difficult, Pasquier feels confident the message has been delivered and the FIFA’s objectives met. “I really have a feeling that the people captured what we tried to do and were very active in the workshops. On top of that the outcome of the exercises were really very promising so I believe that it was a good seminar,” she said.

A second seminar held in November focussed on Finances, an area OFC General Secretary Tai Nicholas believes Oceania has room for improvement in.

“Speaking frankly, financial management is a weakness for our member associations and the President and I, and the OFC executive want to spend as much of our resources and manpower as we can to ensure this is improved over the next 12 months.

“Everything that we saw at this seminar and everything that OFC has achieved since 2011 is really thanks to the work that Eva, Thierry and Cyril are doing on our behalf. I think as a confederation we are really fortunate for the amount of money, resource, help and assistance we receive from the entire FIFA Development division.

“We should be pleased by what we’ve achieved in the past, and by what we will achieve in the future as a confederation.”

The FIFA/OFC Development Seminar was held in Auckland, New Zealand from 15-19 November 2013.

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OFC Insider

THE

BIG INTERVIEW Franck CASTILLO talks PYASC and JUST PLAY OFC Head of Social Responsibility Franck Castillo oversaw the second Pacific Youth and Sports Conference and declared it a major success. OFC Insider catches up with Castillo and asks about the concrete outcomes from this historic forum held in Noumea, New Caledonia in December and touches base on Just Play.

OFC Insider: What persuaded you that social responsibility was your passion?

OFC Insider: PYASC was a big success in Noumea in December, what are your thoughts looking back on it?

Castillo: I visited Tahiti and fell in love with the destination. I holidayed there four years in a row then moved to Tahiti because I loved the pacific way and Tahitian people were very friendly.

I was involved in a non-profit organisation to help children and youth to have better lives. This was a pretty new idea in French Polynesia and it quickly won recognition by the government.

Castillo: We’ve learned a lot from the first PYASC in Manukau in 2010. At the first event, we had to convince people, people started thinking this is the best platform to discuss health issues, social issues.

I like working with people, I have a social fibre, you might say. In 2008, I was asked to become CEO of the main youth organisation in Tahiti and we did a festival in partnership with FIFA in 2006.

In 2008, I reported the outcomes to the FIFA President Joseph Blatter. I remember at the time he said he strongly believes football is a social tool. When he started his career at FIFA people didn’t believe him, people thought he was crazy to think about the social aspect of football.

We’ve designed the Pacific Youth and Sports Conference, built our networks with youth organisations in each country, we’ve now got Just Play and this is where we are today.

In Noumea, we had two very strong co-conveners in Secretariat of the Pacific Community and the Government of New Caledonia and it was easier for us to build a better edition. The Australian Sports Commission, United Nations, UNICEF, UNFPA, World Health Organisation and the International Labour Organisation and OSFO involvement at PYASC 2013 gave us a great platform for success.

OFC Insider

OFC Insider: What are the post-PYASC tasks a month on from the conference itself?

OFC Insider: Winning the Peace and Sport Federation of the Year Award in Monaco was a wonderful moment for Just Play...

Castillo: We need to evaluate what the impact was. In the past, perhaps too many events were organised, good ones, of course, but this is not simply a gathering of young people. We want PYASC to be a tool with a specific strategy.

Castillo: It’s a big honour for Oceania today and it’s wonderful recognition for all the Just Play managers in each country, the development officers, all the instructors and all 2,600 volunteers who have been trained to deliver the programme to 150,000 children. I’m also delighted for all of the Presidents of the Oceania Football Confederation’s Member Associations.

For example, we invited people who work directly with youth to provide a better understanding about social issues in our region in key areas; health — non-communicable diseases, HIV/STI, teenage pregnancy, and unemployment.

Even if sport doesn’t provide a job opportunity directly, by being involved in sport, young people acquire transferable skills, because of sports training they are more employable and this is an impact we can measure. The International Labour Organisation is doing just that.

OFC Insider: How does Just Play fit into the picture?

Castillo: Again, it’s a philosophy, sport can be a fantastic development tool, but to impact we need to design a strong programme. We designed this programme for 6-12 year olds and it took three years. I must acknowledge the Australian Sports Commission — it was a step by step process that took three years.

We had to make sure children had a fun experience, with motivation to enjoy and practice their sport their entire life.

This reduces the factor of disease and we included simple messages about maintaining a balanced diet. This addresses the prevalence of diabetes in our Oceania region.

Another feature of Just Play is the involvement of women. We included female administrators, female coaches. By putting females in a leadership position we show they are capable, like men, to lead their communities and develop respect and as a byproduct, we can hope to reduce domestic violence.

It’s the same with children with disabilities. Just Play changes perceptions, mixing people with and without disability, this shows children can play and interact like any other person.

We’ve measured our progress but engaging children and youth before and after conferences and we continue to do so. We have new content coming with 34 sessions and we hope to see a bigger impact in the first stage. We’ve been acknowledged by the world and there’s no reason why Just Play can’t be rolled out in other regions around the world.

OFC Insider: Let’s return to PYASC and the prospects of another conference being rolled out...

Castillo: We set up specific objectives for Noumea and we can now evaluate the outcomes. We provided more information to youth and used sport as a social tool to anchor it. Youth have been active after the conference which motivated them to design 17 projects and the government ministers who attended the conference agreed to support these projects by including sport for development in their youth policies. In terms of evaluation, we’ve ticked all the boxes.

So far two countries have expressed an interest in organising the next PYASC — French Polynesia and Samoa, so the enthusiasm for the next conference is already building.

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Making a stand for women in football Rumours, innuendo, disrespect and outright sexual harassment are just some of the negative behaviour directed towards Football Federation Samoa CEO Sarai Bareman since she took up the high-powered post.

FFS CEO Sarai Bareman is driving the fight for gender equality in the Pacific with her positive attitude.

Bareman made a powerful presentation on day three of the Pacific Youth and Sports Conference in Noumea, New Caledonia in December, speaking candidly of the challenges she has faced, before revealing what drives her to continue fighting.

On the worst days she has been forced to lock herself in her office to hide the tears as she questions why she is doing what she does. Fortunately for the beautiful game she is inspired by the dedication of her team, the smiles on the faces of people discovering football and the challenge the role poses.

“Being the CEO is a huge responsibility and the pressure to perform is immense,” Bareman said.

“Nevertheless, when I witness the smile on a young girl’s face when she scores her first goal, and the cheers from the crowd as she jumps up and down and celebrates with her team, her mother screaming on the side line with pride — I love my job.

“When I hear the story of a school that we have been working with, reporting that thanks to our football programme there are more children attending school than ever before, this takes the passion I have for the game and builds on it 100 times over as I see the positive impact it has on children, schools and communities and even more — I love my job.”

Bareman’s high profile role comes with a huge amount of responsibility and while her position should be seen as a step forward for women in society, unfortunately she continues to be subjected to gender bias.

“As rewarding as it has been, it has also been one of the most challenging experiences of my life,” she says. “More like a battle, and one that I am determined to win.”

Born in New Zealand, Bareman moved to Samoa in 2008 and after starting off as the FFS finance officer soon moved up the ladder, landing the role of CEO in 2011.

“I was quite unprepared for the in-your-face opposition I encountered as a female, afakasi or half-caste in a male-dominated country like Samoa, and a heavily male-dominated sport like football.

When I’m told that I’m not capable, or I get disrespected because I’m a woman — it’s fuel to my fire.

“I have been called a stupid palagi woman who has no idea what I’m talking about, with no brains. I’ve had my ideas and suggestions ignored, or laughed at simply because I am a woman. I’ve had people tell me straight to my face that my place is in the kitchen and not the CEO’s office and I’ve had to deal with hurtful rumours stating the only reason I got my job is because I slept my way to the top.

OFC Insider “I’ve had male employees who don’t respect me or my authority and who deliberately disobey me or try to shame and embarrass me. I’ve dealt with older men who don’t like to be told what to do by a woman who is younger than them, who is a half-caste.

“I’ve been sitting in serious meetings with high level people and I’ve had to put up with men hitting on me and using sexual innuendos right in the open, while everyone laughs. I’ve had my butt grabbed, been subjected to wolf-whistles and sneered at by all types of males.

“But perhaps what is the hardest is other women, other females, have tried to undermine me by spreading nasty rumours, making up lies, refusing to support me or accept my leadership. Why? Because of jealousy, insecurity, fear? Who knows.”

Despite everything she has been through, Bareman remains strong and says all of it has had the opposite effect.

“I’m still here, I’m still working and I still love my job.

“I have this fire that is burning deep within me. It’s a fire that is burning for me to succeed, to make a difference, to fulfil my purpose and to lead the way. To lead the way for every woman I’ve seen beaten and abused, for every girl who is bullied and teased because of her gender, for every woman who has had to work twice as hard as any man and for every girl who has had her hopes and dreams trodden upon because she’s a female.

“When I’m told that I’m not capable, or I get disrespected because I’m a woman — it’s fuel to my fire.”

Bareman says this conference has been a chance for each and every participant to discuss and share their own experiences, as well as look at how sport can be used to improve people’s lives.

As a leader in sports herself, with 100 per cent certainty, she says this is true — especially when it comes to empowering women.

“Sport creates a platform for women to become leaders, to recognise their true potential, to socialise and participate on a level playing field with the respect of other women, and men alike. There is an expectation that as a woman, we will automatically fail and through sport we can change these perceptions and eliminate inequality.”

Bareman is a true leader who is making progress in breaking down barriers for women globally, but especially at home in Samoa.

“I refuse to shrink my goals and dreams because I am a female. I will keep using that burning fire within me to lead by example and create opportunities for women to be a role model for young girls and to show men that as a woman, I have earned respect and I am capable.”

She implored all those present, but especially the men, not to accept any action verbal or physical that degrades women.

“Ladies, if someone puts you down or treats you like a second class citizen, if you are abused or degraded or made to feel inadequate because you are a woman — use it.

Build your fire and use it as fuel.”

The Year in Numbers

5 the number of MA’s who took advantage of FIFA’s Women’s Football Development Programme 16 the latest FIFA World ranking of New Zealand’s Football Ferns

117 the number of female coaches who attended an OFC or FIFA coaching course (145 coaches in total)

197 the number of girls attending centres of excellence throughout 5 member associations

760 the number of girls taking part in newly launched competitions thanks to funding/equipment from FIFA

780 the number of girls who played in the inaugural U16 school competition in Fiji (39 teams)

1700 the number of girls who took part in FIFA Girls Festivals in Vanuatu, Papua New Guinea and Samoa

10000 the number of females that attended Girls and Women’s Week in New Zealand 87476 the number of kilometres travelled by the OFC Women’s Development Officer

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Soccer Sisters are back Football Federation Samoa kicked off the popular girls only grassroots programme in October. The first ‘Soccer Sisters’ festival saw over 100 girls take part and raised awareness of Breast Cancer.

Each festival since then has been linked to a health issue to utilise the opportunity for health education.

As part of an OFC initiative, the programme now has a new look logo. OFC will look to help other MA’s in 2014 come up with their own branding for women’s football and provide signage.

New Zealand U-17 in World Cup group with Japan New Zealand’s Young Football Ferns will represent OFC at the U17 Women’s World Cup in Costa Rica in 2014. They have been drawn in Group C with Paraguay, Spain and frequent foes Japan. The Ferns also shared a group with Spain and Japan in 2010 with the Ferns losing 3-1 and 6-0 respectively. With first ever female head coach, Jitka Klimkova at the helm, the Young Ferns kick off their campaign facing Paraguay on the 16th March. The Young Ferns have never made it past the group stage, but could 2014 be their year?

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OFC Insider

NEWS FROM MEMBER ASSOCIATIONS COOK ISLANDS The Cook Islands Football Association is on the search for a new Media and Communications Officer following the departure of Pauline Dean.

The position is advertised in full on the Cook Islands Football Association website at www.cookislandsfootball.com

FIJI Ace striker Roy Krishna completed his move to Hyundai A-League side the Wellington Phoenix on January 7, 2014. Krishna, 26, scored the only goal of Auckland City’s FIFA Club World Cup Morocco 2013 campaign in Agadir as the Oceania champions lost their playoff to Raja Casablanca 2-1. Krishna became the first Fijian to play in the league when he appeared as a substitute in the Phoenix’s 1-1 draw with Central Coast Mariners in January.

NEW CALEDONIA Jean-Phillipe Saiko is New Caledonia’s Player of the Year for 2013. The FC Gaitcha striker notched 25 goals for his club last season and was also named in the New Caledonia Team of the Year. Saiko was joined in the all-star selection by team-mates Georges Bearune and Pierre Wajoka.

Issidore Assiène-Ambassa was announced as Match Official of the Year while Adrien Ausu won Coach of the Year. FC Ferrand also won recognition for its exploits in Futsal.

NEW ZEALAND New Zealand Football has a new chief executive. Andy Martin, formerly chief executive of rugby club London Irish, replaces interim CEO Mark Aspden. Following the All Whites failure to qualify for the 2014 FIFA World Cup in Brazil, coach Ricki Herbert has stood down. The All Whites are next in action when they face Japan in a friendly international on March 5, 2014, in Tokyo. The Football Ferns will also face Japan in Osaka on May 8.

PAPUA NEW GUINEA Oceania Football Confederation (OFC) and PNGFA President David Chung said the PNGFA will be implementing an elite academy programme and said the senior men’s and women’s teams will also begin preparation for their respective FIFA World Cups with a series of friendly matches planned.

“While planned infrastructure development for Bougainville and Kimbe and flood lights for the Lae Academy and a major refurbishment of facilities will also take place,” he added. Chung said a review of the domestic competitions and junior development pathway is essential and there would be more coaching and referees courses by the OFC in the pipeline.

SOLOMON ISLANDS The Telekom S-League faced a delay of one week as the Lawson Tama Stadium pitch recovers ahead of the second half of a hectic fixture schedule.

With 28 matches in eight weeks planned leading into the OFC Champions League, the S-League board remain confident the competition will conclude on time. The winner of the S-League represents the Solomon Islands in the OFC Champions League.

VANUATU The Port Vila Shield and TVL Premier League competitions kicked off in January with the Vanuatu Football Federation also scheduling a Media Workshop for its Technical Department as a busy 2014 looms for football in the country. The winner of the TVL Premier League will represent Vanuatu at the OFC Champions League in Fiji in April.

OFC Insider

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FORTHCOMING EVENTS OFC Executive Committee Meeting 29 March / Auckland, New Zealand

COMPETITIONS FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup Costa Rica 2014 15 March – 5 April OFC Champions League Group Stage Fiji 2014 7 – 15 April / Ba and Lautoka OFC Champions League Semi Finals 1st/2nd Leg 26 – 27 April / 3 – 4 May / Venue TBC OFC Champions League Final 10 – 11 May / Venue TBC OFC U-19 Men’s Championship 22 – 31 May / Venue TBC *All dates correct at the time of publication

NOTICES OFC appointed Tuakaha Mua as its news Head of Television on Tuesday 14 January. Mua, a former Fiji TV technician, replaces Olivier Huc who returned to Tahiti at the end of 2013.

Andy Martin is the new chief executive officer of New Zealand Football replacing interim CEO Mark Aspden.

The OFC appointed Richard Otter as its new Head of Finance, Michael Song as Head of Competitions and confirmed Gordon Watson as Head of Media and Communications following the OFC Executive Committee meeting held in November.

Steven Upfold has been appointed Media Manager for New Zealand Football.

Upfold is a former TVNZ employee and communications manager for Auckland Football Federation.

OBITUARIES Farouk Janeman former Fiji international and technical Director of the Fiji FA died on September 27, 2013.

Keryn Jordan all-time top scorer in the OFC Champions League and a former South Africa international and Auckland City player died October 21, 2013, aged 37.

Rama Chandra Kotte former general secretariat staff member at the OFC passed away after a sudden illness December 15, 2013, aged 39.

Alan Richards MBE, a New Zealand football broadcaster and former top footballer with the North Shore United club, passed away on December 27, 2013.

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