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FA TEAM IN FALKLANDS
In 2018, an FA Representative X1 made a 16,000 mile goodwill visit to the Falkland Islands.
The squad of 16 players, led by England C manager Paul Fairclough played two fixtures, winning 3-1 against the Falklands Islands team and defeating a British Forces South Atlantic Islands side by 3-2.
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In addition to the two games, the squad also had a busy schedule of events, attending a reception hosted by his excellency the Governor Nigel Phillips CBE at the Government House, and one hosted by the Commander of British Forces South Atlantic Islands at Mount Pleasant military base.
The squad led training sessions in the three island schools during their visit, engaging with children, parents and teachers with each child on the island receiving a variety of small gifts from The FA. In addition, Fairclough led a coaching session at the Mount Pleasant military base for military coaches.
The team attended the service of remembrance and joined the parade through Port Stanley, where Fairclough laid a wreath on behalf of the FA at the war memorial.
“It was a memorable visit,” said Laurence Jones, head of the National League System.
“The warmth of the welcome and appreciation from everyone on the islands was humbling. The Islanders embraced us into their community and hopefully a legacy of the visit will see the game grow and develop with new facilities and qualified coaches.”
The players were fantastic ambassadors for the FA and the two matches were both very exciting and watched by the two largest crowds ever to watch football matches in the Islands.
The young squad, with an average age of 21, had an experience that money cannot buy. Throughout the short stay, their development as young people was evident to see by all. The Football Association has left a profound legacy on the Islands that will never be forgotten.”
Local football is now thriving with leagues for men, women and youth. In 2022 the Falklands football league was fought out by the Hunters, Mustangs, Rangers and Redsox. Who would you support?
