The five-day OFC Goalkeeping C-Licence Coaching course was conducted at the Fiji FA Academy in Ba last week.
A total of 14 participants were registered for the course which included the former and current goalkeepers.
In its football development strategic plan 2019 – 2026, the Oceania Football Confederation (OFC) has reinforced the importance goalkeepers play in the success of OFC teams.
While goalkeeper coaches in the region have received training through the certificate courses, the OFC Goalkeepeer C licencing introduces a professional qualification component which will be linked to minimum requirements in all OFC competitions.
OFC’s priority is to promote a pathway for the development of goalkeeper coaches focused on specific professional competences.
Led by OFC Goalkeeper Development Consultant James Bannatyne, the course provided goalkeeper coaches with new experiences while preparing them to be better adapted to new challenges through a principle-centred approach.
“The Participants have all worked very hard this (last) week and I’m really proud of their efforts,” Bannatyne said.
“From here, it is about applying the knowledge and supporting the goalkeepers’ development in Fiji.”
He said there are some post course assessments that the participants need to complete before their final assessment.
“They (participants) have made a commitment to each other and to us that they will work swiftly to get their assessments done quickly so that we can support them achieve the Goalkeeping C-Licence.
“To complete the first course is exciting but this is the beginning for their journey in further coaching as well as further goalkeeping development in Oceania.”
Bannatyne thanked Fiji Football Association (Fiji FA) for playing a great host.
“A big thank you to Fiji Football, to Yogendra Dutt who supported the course, technical director Ravinesh Kumar, Fiji FA president and CEO for hosting the first ever Oceania Football C-Licence for goalkeeping.
“The support from Fiji FA is well noted from OFC and we look forward to conducting more courses in Fiji.”
