FIFA bestows Harmon With Top Honour

Cook Islands Football Association President Lee Harmon now stands on the international dais with some prominent world figures as recipients of the FIFA Order of Merit, joining some names like Pelé, Nelson Mandela and Henry Kissinger.
Last week, Mr Harmon was publicly presented the award by FIFA Vice-President and President of the Oceania Football Confederation, Mr Reyland Temarii, in Rarotonga at the inauguration of CIFA’s football grandstand and changing rooms.
The FIFA Order of Merit, also referred to as FIFA Centennial Order of Merit, is the highest honour awarded by FIFA, normally awarded to people who are considered to have made a significant contribution to football.
“This award is for CIFA. I would like to dedicate this award to every executive I worked with, in the past and current. This award is also for the members and players of Cook Islands football,” Mr Harmon said.
“It is a good feeling to receive an award for something you love doing.”
Mr Harmon also acknowledged Tony Hole, who first nominated him into the CIFA Executive Committee 19 years ago.
The football association moved to another level when Mr Harmon took over the rein in 1997 with the introduction of FIFA’s Goal Projects – football academy, international playing pitches and grandstand plus changing rooms.

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