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NMIFA committed to repair training center
The artificial turf at the secondary pitch at the NMI Soccer Training Center was ripped off by Super Typhoon Yutu. (Roselyn B. Monroyo)
Northern Mariana Islands Football Association has expressed its full commitment to repair the damage sustained by the NMI Soccer Training Center.
“We are committed to do the necessary repairs at the training center to bring back organized competitions and soccer activities for our youth and other players and officials,” NMIFA president Jerry Tan said.
The NMIFA head added that though the training facility in Koblerville suffered significant damage, they are still fortunate that the main pitch and bleachers would only require minor repairs and the association’s office is intact,” Tan said.
The secondary pitch was the one hammered by Super Typhoon Yutu, as it was completely torn, while the fence will also need full repair. The lighting (one side) needs fixing, too along with the covered team shelter/portable dugouts.
As for the timetable for the repair work, the NMIFA head could not give a definite date.
“It will all depend on the availability of materials and manpower. We know that a lot of construction companies will be very busy in rebuilding Saipan, so we can’t say yet when will the repairs start and be completed. But, one thing is sure—we will repair the facility,” Tan said.
Meanwhile, East Asian Football Federation, Asian Football Confederation, Japan Football Association, and Guam Football Association have reached out to NMIFA after learning what happened to the facility and Saipan.
“We got calls and letters from our friends in the soccer community and we are very thankful for their concern. They have expressed their desire to help and we will very much appreciate any financial assistance we could receive from our friends and supporters from AFC, EAFF, GFA, and JFA,” Tan said.
