AIA and OFC launch Oceania Football Education Programme

AIA and OFC launch Oceania Football Education Programme

AUCKLAND, New Zealand, 16 June 2016 – The Oceania Football Confederation (OFC) and AIA are proud to announce the launch of a new pilot initiative ‘The Oceania Football Education Programme – powered by AIA’ in Auckland, New Zealand to support aspiring young Asian and Pacific footballers.

The partnership sees AIA, the largest independent publically-listed pan-Asian life insurance group, supporting a scholarship programme which enables 13 participants from around Asia Pacific to spend two terms in Auckland where they will benefit from some of the best coaching and facilities available in the region.

AIA is committed to supporting football across Asia Pacific and its partnership with English Premier League club Tottenham Hotspur FC demonstrates the role participation in sport plays in promoting a healthy lifestyle.

Mark Saunders, Group Chief Strategy and Marketing Officer for AIA said, “Life insurance has a powerful role in making a positive difference in people’s lives. AIA’s mission is to contribute to the wellbeing of people in every community and to help them live longer, healthier, better lives. Our support of the Oceania Football Education Programme reflects the value we see in sports participation helping to develop key life skills and promote active, healthy lifestyles.”

David Savidan, Head of Marketing and Communications for AIA New Zealand added, “AIA New Zealand is proud that Auckland will host these aspiring young footballers and wish them all the very best for their time here. It is fitting that this sponsorship marks the first step in AIA New Zealand’s support for youth football in New Zealand.”

David Chung, OFC President, said, “Having a partner on board to help support this programme in its early stages is crucial to the project’s success.”

“AIA has proposed the AIA Personal Performance Plan (AIA PPP) in which measurable changes can be targeted for each individual. This is vital as we need to take education and personal development as seriously as football. We are shaping young minds as well as footballers.”

The scholarship provides funding to cover education - including English language training - coaching, accommodation and living costs of all 13 participants to attend One Tree Hill College while participating in the OFC Education Centre.

This release is available at www.oceaniafootball.com

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