CIFA Completes Successful Youth Football Coaching Course with OFC Support

Empowering Local Coaches for the Future of Cook Islands Football

The Cook Islands Football Association (CIFA) recently concluded a highly successful Youth Football Coaching Course, designed to elevate the skills of local coaches and promote youth football development across the islands. Supported by the Oceania Football Confederation (OFC), the three-day course saw 12 participants from various clubs in Rarotonga earn official certifications, marking a key milestone in the Cook Islands’ football journey.

An Expert-Led Initiative
The course was facilitated by OFC Player Development Officer Phill Parker, who praised the event as a “huge success.” Local coach educators Ngati Manuela, Tupou Brogan, and Tyson Tekeu led the sessions, delivering a dynamic and professional program aimed at coaches working with players aged 13-17.

“Ngati Manuela’s teaching expertise created a supportive learning atmosphere, while Tupou and Tyson brought energy and valuable insights to their sessions,” said Parker. “It was a team effort that brought out the best in everyone.”

Developing Coaches for Long-Term Impact
The course covered essential topics such as effective coaching methods, player safeguarding, and creating positive learning environments for youth players. Daily on-field practical sessions allowed participants to apply the theoretical concepts learned, fostering a deeper understanding of coaching techniques.

Matt Campbell, CIFA’s Technical Director, emphasized the importance of the course in advancing the football community: “This course provided coaches with valuable knowledge and inspiration, which will positively impact youth football development in the Cook Islands.”

For participant Tehai Wuatai, the experience was transformative. “I loved the Grassroots Course, and this youth course was even better. It’s helped me grow as a coach,” Wuatai said.

Building Confidence and Skills for Coach Educators
For local coach educators like Women’s Development Officer Tupou Brogan and Goalkeeping Development Officer Tyson Tekeu, the course also provided an opportunity for personal growth. Brogan, who admitted she wasn’t comfortable speaking in front of groups, said the experience boosted her confidence and improved her teaching techniques.

“I learned to adapt my approach to different participants and gained the courage to tailor my content for what works best in our local context,” said Brogan.

Tekeu echoed this sentiment, sharing how the course helped him refine his delivery skills. “The supportive environment allowed me to grow both as a coach and an educator. Connecting with others in the field was invaluable,” Tekeu added.

A Milestone for Cook Islands Football
All 12 participants received CIFA Youth Football Coaching and OFC Intro to Player Development certificates at the course’s conclusion, underscoring the importance of coach education in building a sustainable football future in the Cook Islands.

“Qualified coaches are vital to achieving our football development goals,” said Campbell. “As we certify more coaches, we are strengthening the foundations of football in our community.”

The timing of the course aligned with an OFC Player Development Workshop, where Parker highlighted the significance of the OFC Player Development model. He encouraged coaches to incorporate skills challenges and awards into training programs, promoting self-driven development for both players and coaches.

Looking Ahead
The week culminated in Parker attending the opening ceremony of the 2024 Cook Island Games (CIG), where he witnessed the nation’s sporting pride firsthand. Football will take center stage in the second week of the games, showcasing the progress made in the sport.

Looking to the future, Parker and Campbell have laid out a two-year plan aimed at further developing local coaches and players. The initiative includes expanded mentoring programs and potential exchange opportunities, exposing Cook Islands football talent to broader experiences both domestically and internationally.

Tags:
CIFA, Youth Football Coaching, Oceania Football Confederation, Cook Islands, Player Development, Football Coaching Course, OFC, Youth Sports Development

Hashtags:
#pitchsidehq #youthfootball #footballcoaching #CookIslandsFootball #OFC #PlayerDevelopment #CIFA #football