Elizabeth Laqere, 12, is looking forward to representing Fiji at the 2018 FIFA World Cup as part of the football for friendship programme.

During her farewell function at Saraswati Primary Manoca School in Nausori yesterday, Laqere was grateful for the opportunity.

“My dream is to play for Fiji and hopefully, win a scholarship where I can study and play football,” Laqere said.

“My interest started while accompanying my grandmother to watch my uncles Iosefo Verevou and Epeli Saukuru play.

“I started playing at nine and believe in equality because it promotes togetherness.”

Taqere’s grandmother Anaseini Wati who will be accompanying the granddaughter said;

“I’m really happy for my granddaughter and I want to thank God for the opportunity she got to represent Fiji at the 2018 World Cup in Russia.

“I am grateful that I will be going abroad with her and getting the opportunity to meet the professional footballers and we are looking forward to this tour.

“And I believe it is a gift from God to my family as most of my children have a keen interest in football like her.”

Saraswati Primary Manoca School teacher Seriama Waqalevu said it was a proud moment for the school.

“We are really proud of her and it is a great achievement for Saraswati Primary Manoca School and we are so happy to have one of our students to represent the country at the 2018 World Cup in Russia,” Waqalevu said.

“Her selection has boosted the morale of the students.”

The Friendship for Football programme will take place in Moscow, Russia on June 8-15 ahead of the 2018 FIFA World Cup.

The aim of the programme is to promote essential values embodied by football with the younger generation such as respect for other cultures and nationalities as well as equality..

A highlight of the programme sees young people from all over the world attending the first game of the FIFA World Cup 2018 between Russia and Saudi Arabia. They’ll also be part of the official opening ceremony at Luzhniki Stadium in Moscow.

 Edited by Osea  Bola

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