Etienne: FIFA World Cup here an historic event

Glen Etienne, the President of the Dominica Football Association (DFA) said the FIFA World Cup trophy's arrival here was "a most historic occasion and proud moment for all in Dominica, especially the football family".

The trophy, built in 1974, is 18 karat gold, weighs 13.5 pounds and is valued at US$10 million. Speaking at a ceremony attended by president of Dominica His Excellency Charles Savarin and Mrs. Savarin and acting Prime Minister Dr. Kenneth Darroux along with sports minister Justina Charles, the DFA boss said that having the trophy on Dominican soil will forever be cherished and etched in our memories for as long as we live, talk, think and see football.

"We in the Dominica Football Association are very happy to be associated with this FIFA World Cup Trophy Tour. This tour affords us the opportunity to witness this coveted trophy, which will be battled for in Brazil at next year's FIFA World Cup Finals. For many of us, including myself, it is the closest that we may ever reach in terms of laying hands on it. This FIFA World Cup Trophy coming to Dominica is significant for many reasons," he said.

The trophy's presence on Dominican soil Etienne stated "should serve as an inspiration and motivation for everyone involved or associated with this beautiful game."

"Football is a game of passion and togetherness and the presence of this trophy symbolizes that. Also, the fact that the FIFA World Cup Trophy is in Dominica is a testimony that FIFA treats each Member Association with respect and are all seen as equals. Our football in Dominica has benefited from our association with FIFA over the many years since FIFA has contributed and will continue to contribute significantly to our continued development and in our quest to take the sport to every nook and cranny of this island," he stated.

He showered praises on FIFA's President Sepp Blatter and CONCACAF President Jeffrey Webb and Coca Cola Company through its agents Josephine Gabriel and Company for willingly agreeing to have Dominica be part of this World Cup Trophy Tour itinerary. Etienne also urged Dominica's national players and all those who play football to redouble their efforts and to remain committed to the sport since it provides endless and countless opportunities for advancement and for a better way of life.

"Let the presence of this trophy spur you on to want to qualify for a World Cup Final, while the road to the finals may not be easy and it may appear to be a daunting task, if we persevere, give our all and work hard some level of success will be realized. At the end of the day, let us give our best and be satisfied that we have given all what we have. Let the sight of this Trophy force you to look at football with new energy and new lenses. Let it serve as an impetus for growth and success," he said.