Scott Gilligan, project manager for the “Win in Oceania” Futsal development programme, has been in Fiji this week to assist the Fiji Football Association (FFA) in setting up a development structure for the abbreviated form of the game.
The former Australian Futsal player and coach has been actively involved in designing and monitoring programmes in the Pacifc Island, namely the Solomon Islands, Vanuatu and New Caledonia.
Gilligan has facilitated a week-long workshop in Suva for local coaches to broaden their coaching skills.
Fiji FA chief executive officer Bob Kumar said more than 35 local coaches participating in the workshop have learned a great deal from Gilligan.
“We are honored to have Scott as he is the most qualified Futsal coach in the region and has done wonders with the Island nations where he has worked with the local coaches," said Dr. Kumar.
“We are happy he accepted our invite and is in the country to assist us and the coaches should take full advantage of the workshop with him.
“Fiji FA is serious about developing Futsal and raising awareness of the sport and will also develop its own pitch in the new academy in Suva.
“Apart from working with the participants at the workshop, he will also work closely with national coaching director Saiyad Ali and other development officers, sharing his knowledge and experience in the sport."
In his drive to see the sport grow, Gilligan is working to integrate Futsal in schools around the region, set up domestic competitions for all levels, train coaches and teachers, and employ Futsal Development Officers in Oceania Football Confederation (OFcC) Member Associations.
All of these initiatives are part of the FIFA-funded Win in Oceania development program.
Story courtesy of Fijilive.com