The course picks up where the FIFA Futsal Level 1 and 2 left of in 2012, with the previous course led by Pierre Jacky coach of the France national futsal team.
Between theory at the CISE and practical sessions at the stadium in Rivière Sallée, it was a full programme for the 20 futsal ‘students’ keen to benefit from the former professional’s expertise.
Having already tasted the upper echelons of the sport as both a player and a coach, Meurs is well placed to impart his knowledge.
As a player one of his most memorable moments was scoring the golden goal against Italy in UEFA’s first international futsal tournament in 1996, where Belgium took third place.
He has been a FIFA Futsal Instructor for nine years now and says he is pleased to be able to impart what he’s learnt with an up-and-coming nation of futsal players.
Meurs says the five day course had a variety of objectives but development for the future was one of the key aspects.
“We want to help put in place the foundations for good work, to give them the ability to continue their progress,” he explains.
“The goal of these FIFA courses is to improve the level of futsal and this week allows is to have a more precise vision of the development strategy that will be followed here in New Caledonia. And after five days we can see exactly where we are with that.”
“There is talent everywhere, here as well, but we need to know how to develop it and that’s why I am here today.”
FCF interim President Jules Hmeun was pleased the Federation was able to deliver a course that has been long-awaited by coaches in the country.
“It’s a great honour and a chance for you all to benefit from one of the greats, so I hope you make the most of it, learn and progress,” Hmeun told participants.
OFC Futsal and Beach Soccer Development Officer Paul Toohey was in attendance for the opening days of the course and says Meurs’ experience and knowledge in futsal made a big impact on the participants and key staff from FCF.
“In both the theory and practical sessions, Benny really challenged all the coaches to find their own coaching process, to avoid the ‘copy and paste’ approach,” Toohey says.
“The time together was very well spent and I would say Benny gave everyone some really excellent tools on which to build their futsal coaching. The key for all participants now, as always, is to put these new skills to the test with their clubs and particularly their young players.”
The FIFA Futsal Coaching Course was held in Noumea, New Caledonia from 21-25 July.
For more about New Caledonia football go to www.fedcalfoot.com

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