Work has begun on upgrading the training venues for the FIFA Under 20 Women's Football World Cup in Papua New Guinea.
The 17 training venues will be at Bisini, Sir John Guise, Murray Barracks, University of Papua New Guinea, Institute of Public Administration, Gerehu Secondary School, Gordons Secondary School, Port Moresby National High School and Port Moresby International School.
The Bisini Sports Complex in Port Moresby. Photo: PNG Football
They're scheduled for completion in mid-August before the tournament kicks off in November.
FIFA Local Organising Committee chief executive officer Seamus Marten said work had started and the first task was to clear the top soil and the drainage system on the fields.
"Once they have cleared the top soil and the drainage systems we will put in pipes and the pop-up sprinkling system, followed by the final top soil for the grass to be planted," Marten explained.
He said contractors Porohu Engineering were working tirelessly to ensure that the training fields meet the requirements set by FIFA.
"The quality of the training pitch is just as important as the stadium pitch. That is why for each training venue we will have two changing rooms built. However, the field dimensions are standard - 110 metres in length and 72 metres in width."
Seamus Marten said the upgraded venues were also establishing a long-term legacy for the sport in the country and after the World Cup different sporting codes, schools and ordinary football enthusiasts would continue to benefit from the facilities.
The Federation States of Micronesia play Fiji at the Pacific Games in Port Moresby. Photo: Pacific Games News Service
