A youth football delegation from Australia’s International Soccer Academy (ISA) has undertaken a tour of the Maldives, earning praise from Australian High Commissioner David Jessup, who recognised the initiative as a meaningful advance in bilateral engagement through sport.
The tour culminated in a friendly fixture held Friday at the National Football Stadium in Malé, where ISA players faced the Maldivian Under-19 national team. The match offered a platform for both sides to sharpen their competitive edge while fostering mutual understanding through shared participation.
High Commissioner Jessup noted that the programme allowed Australian players to engage directly with their Maldivian counterparts, experience the capital’s football culture firsthand, and build valuable international exposure. He identified sport as a powerful medium for connection, capable of bridging communities and deepening diplomatic ties.
His presence at the match also served a broader purpose. In addition to observing the players’ performance, High Commissioner Jessup met with senior ISA officials to assess the tour’s outcomes and held formal discussions with Abdulla Rafiu, Minister of Sports, Fitness and Recreation. The dialogues signalled a growing appetite for cooperation within the sports sector and a collective intent to nurture institutional ties.
High Commissioner Jessup reaffirmed Australia’s commitment to supporting athletic development in the Maldives, with emphasis on tailored contributions where impact can be most effective. He acknowledged the increasing visibility of Maldivian athletes on the global stage and expressed pride in their achievements.
The energy on the pitch mirrored the spirit of the visit, as both teams delivered spirited performances marked by discipline and camaraderie, attributes High Commissioner Jessup identified as defining the tour’s purpose.