Message from the President of the East Asian Football Federation

Hello everyone! Ni hao! Welcome to the EAFF U-15 Girls Tournament 2017.

We are delighted to have this opportunity to organise this year an international competition for girls in the under-15 age category for the first time in EAFF. The local team Shanghai joins nine other teams from East Asia to showcase the bursting energy and enthusiasm of the young footballers from the ten participating teams.

East Asia has always produced strong contenders in women’s football, and there will be a lot of attention directed towards the developing talent that will become tomorrow’s leading players. Many will play outside of their home country for the first time. I have no doubt that the wonderfully prepared environment in Shanghai will motivate the players and stir up their challenging spirit. I look forward to witnessing their invigorating football set off by respect and fair play.

A referees’ clinic and a coaching course will also be conducted during the tournament. In addition, team activities will be offered on the final day in order to encourage wider communication between the players. I am confident that the tournament is going to be an exciting and inspiring occasion.

As you all know, FIFA is putting a lot of emphasis on developing women’s football, and nations around the world are following suit. An international competition dedicated to girls in the U-15 age category will make a strong contribution to the sustainable development of women’s football and football in East Asia, thanks to the financial assistance from FIFA “Forward” Development Programme.

I wish to express my sincere gratitude to the Chinese Football Association and the Shanghai Football Association for hosting the EAFF U-15 Girls Tournament 2017 and extending their warm hospitality to the teams and all those involved in this wonderful competition.

Kohzo Tashima
President, East Asian Football Federation