VVV-Venlo gives Tuvaluan international Jason Alama a contract chance

VVV-Venlo gives the 23‑year‑old Tuvaluan international Jason Alama a trial period from 29 October to earn a contract, Oceania Football Center reports on Tuesday. The club offers the wing‑back, who currently plays for Western Springs AFC in New Zealand, a chance to prove himself.

Why VVV-Venlo offers a chance

VVV-Venlo has built a reputation as a club that offers opportunities to players from lesser‑known football markets. Alama’s unique background, coming from one of the most remote archipelagos in the world, fits that open attitude.

Most Oceanian players look for a higher level via New Zealand, the largest country within the Oceania Football Confederation. Alama came through Waitakere City and West Coast before ending up at Western Springs AFC.

Alama’s international experience

Alama has so far played three internationals for Tuvalu, including matches against Vanuatu, Tonga and the Northern Mariana Islands, the latter two of which were won. He has also represented his country in official futsal internationals.

The journey from Tuvalu to the Netherlands is a logistical adventure; every flight must go via Fiji, the only country with a direct connection. Those who know the Tuvaluan football scene include the Dutchman Foppe de Haan, who was the island’s national team coach in 2011.

The technical director of the Tuvaluan football association, Michiel van der Werf, confirmed to Oceania Football Center that Alama will appear in De Koel from 29 October to earn a contract.

Tuvalu consists of 113 islands and has fewer than ten thousand inhabitants; the only international flight connection runs via Fiji, while within the country two government vessels supply the residents once every one to four weeks.

For VVV‑Venlo, Alama’s arrival adds an extra dimension on and off the pitch, with a story that can generate media attention. For the 23‑year‑old left‑back, the opportunity offers a possible breakthrough into European professional football.