THE hosts of the 2025 FMF Inter District Championship (IDC), Ba Football Club, are eagerly awaiting a tough and exciting event as the tournament approaches.
Ba team head coach Rodicks Singh expressed that preparations are going well to ensure the players are mentally, physically, and spiritually fit for the competition.
Singh emphasised the significance of the IDC, being a major tournament held in their home ground.
“IDC, as we all know, is a big tournament. Preparations have been going well. We have been working with our technical staffs to ensure that the team is in top form for the competition,” said Singh.
Singh also acknowledged the tough competition in Pool B, with Extra Premier League champions Rewa and Navua being formidable opponents.
“Looking at the pool draws, we got League champions Rewa, Navua in the mix, which will be a tough and exciting encounter.
“The team (Ba) will approach each game one at a time, focusing on delivering our best performance on the field.”
Singh emphasised the importance of not rushing into things and maintaining focus throughout the tournament.
He mentioned playing at the 4R Stadium, Govind Park after nine years will be a special experience, and the team is determined to perform well.
“Hosting the tournament, will be a bit of pressure. It will keep everybody on their toes, but the place (Govind Park) has always been a lucky ground for us.
“Also coming to play in Govind Park after nine years will be something special, and we hope to do our best and get the win on home soil.”
Singh encouraged fans to come out in numbers to support the team, believing that their support will boost the team’s performance in all their games.
Meanwhile, New Zealand-based players Mohammed Fataul Raheem and Praneel Naidu are back with the team, adding depth and experience to the squad. The two also featured in the 2023 IDC competition for the Men in Black.
In terms of the tournament structure, Group A features defending champions Labasa, Lautoka, Suva, and Nadi, while Group B includes Ba, Rewa, Navua, and Nadroga.
In the Senior Division, Group A will see Lami, Taveuni, and Nadogo, while Group B will see Rakiraki, Savusavu, and Dreketi.
The Premier Division consists of Nasinu, Tavua, Tailevu Naitasiri and Seaqaqa all competing in a round-robin format.
The FMF IDC 2025 is set to kick off next Tuesday at the 4R Stadium, Govind Park in Ba.