OFC Match Coordinator Programme Elevates Competition Standard

Building Expertise in Competition Management

Seven participants representing OFC Member Associations took part in the FIFA World Cup 26™ Oceania Qualifiers in Auckland as part of the inaugural OFC Match Coordinator Programme. This initiative, aligned with the OFC Strategy, aims to develop a network of skilled competition organisers to elevate football management standards across the region.

A Unique Practical-Theoretical Approach

Participants from Tonga, Fiji, Tahiti, Vanuatu, and New Zealand attended match day five, observing key fixtures including Tahiti vs. Vanuatu and New Zealand vs. Samoa. The practical experience was complemented by a workshop led by the OFC Competitions team at Te Kahu o’ Kiwa, the Home of Football in Auckland.

Among the attendees were Jay Aickin and Shannon Hewetson (New Zealand), Hemaloto Polovili and Lositika Feke (Tonga), Naea Bennett (Tahiti), Batick ‘Bong’ Shem (Vanuatu), and Shweta Shankar (Fiji). The dual approach provided insights into the complexities of organizing world-class football events, from stadium setup to ensuring player welfare.

Pathway to Excellence

OFC Head of Competitions Amir Navon described the programme as a groundbreaking educational initiative in competition management.
“This is OFC’s first step toward creating a unified standard for organizing competitions in the region,” Navon said. “Top performers may progress to the OFC Match Director initiative, fostering collaboration and knowledge-sharing across our competitions network.”

A Participant’s Perspective

Vanuatu Football Federation Competitions Manager, Batick ‘Bong’ Shem, highlighted the programme’s impact.
“The meticulous preparation for matches like Vanuatu vs. Tahiti was a reminder of the scale and importance of World Cup Qualifiers in Oceania. The OFC Coordinator staff demonstrated an incredible commitment to creating an environment where teams could focus entirely on their performance,” Shem remarked.
“There was a strong sense of unity and purpose among everyone involved. Every action taken by staff, coaches, and players brought us closer to achieving our shared dream.”

A Vision for the Future

Through the Match Coordinator Programme, OFC is building a foundation for excellence in competition management. By unifying standards and fostering collaboration, the initiative aims to empower competitions managers to drive football’s growth across Oceania.