By Charlie Dumavi
THE owner and manager of Hekari United FC (HUFC), Vonnie Kapi Natto, has expressed her amazement at the overwhelming support received by the club in establishing the Hekari Football Academy in Vanimo, West Sepik Province.
The establishment of a professional football academy to develop young talent has been a missing component in the PNG football system for years, and local clubs are now taking the initiative to include academies in their budgets.
In an interview with the Sunday Bulletin, Natto described the opening of the Vanimo Hekari Football Academy (VHFA) on June 14, 2023, as one of the most incredible experiences she has had in football.
As a volunteer dedicated to developing football in the country, she expressed her gratitude for the support received in Vanimo, where she witnessed children playing football barefoot.
Natto’s goal is to enroll young children in football academies to instill discipline and nurture future football players for the country while addressing social issues. She said her intention was not to profit from the community, stating: “I impose discipline as number one.
“The social issues in this nation are driving everyone crazy.
“The increase in children begging on the streets burdens both their parents and our community.
“I am here to help shape our future generation into professional players, disciplined individuals, and future leaders.”
She acknowledged the support of the West Sepik Provincial Government to her efforts.
Natto said the provincial government has pledged assistance to establish academies in its districts.
The opening of the academy marks the start of many more Hekari United football academies to be established across the country.
Within a week, HUFC will inaugurate its Port Moresby academy, followed by academies in Kokopo and two others in the Highlands.
Admission into the academy is free-of-charge and is open to children interested in learning and participating in football from an early age.
Beginners will undergo the School of Excellence programme, facilitated by a specialised identification team comprising former footballers such as Wira Waman, Erikson Komeng, and David Muta, before progressing to join the youth in the academy.
The academy will also participate in a futsal competition to enhance skills before the players are scouted for youth competitions.
Regarding coaching, Natto said: “I will bring in a mentor to help and guide our young coaches so they can become starting coaches in the country.”
She expressed her desire to establish academies in various locations across the country, provided they are ready to embrace the challenge, saying: “That is what I will do wherever I reach.”
Natto expressed her hope that in the coming years, collaboration and major sponsorships will enable the realisation of the academies she envisions.
