The five-day workshop, led by Technical Director Patrick Jacquemet and Head of Refereeing Massimo Raveino, wrapped up at OFC headquarters with a presentation to OFC President Reynald Temarii which defined an eight-year plan.
Representing at least seven nationalities, the technical staff outlined strategies in all areas of the game including grassroots, elite, refereeing, women’s football, coach development, beach soccer, futsal, medical and fitness training.
President Temarii was impressed with the overall outcomes.
“The plans I have seen from the technical department will not only help our member associations but also our clubs and communities. That is the important thing – to go deep and reach the people involved at the grassroots level because they are the foundation of our sport.”
Jacquemet, who took over as Head of the Technical Department in January, says it has been a productive workshop.
“This is the start of a new cycle. We now have 11 staff, some of whom are new, so the first objective of this workshop was to share the ‘OFC Vision 2018’ which our President developed with each Head of Department in August,” says the former professional goalkeeper.
Over the course of the week, Jacquemet says the technical team participated in lively discussion to determine the processes and protocols that will ensure success in each area of the game.
“For us, success means not only doing well at FIFA tournaments but also getting more kids to play the game.”
One way OFC is looking to grow football is through the Just Play grassroots initiative. The three-year programme continues to be rolled out across the region with backing from the Australian Government who have contributed AUD$3.8 million while support has also come from UEFA, Cuesports and Sir John Walker’s Find Your Field of Dreams charity.
Just Play essentially encompasses the entire technical department with components focusing on coach education, gender equality, medical training, small-sided games, youth development and capacity building within communities.
By 2012, the programme aims to reach 2,000 primary schools and involve around 5000 teachers and 260,000 students.
President Temarii closed the workshop by congratulating the technical staff and also leaving them with a challenge.
“I would like to see each of you spend more time in the member associations. That is the only way you will learn the true needs of those involved in the game,” says President Temarii.