Expectations are high among football clubs in Tonga after the completion of the Tongan Football Association’s (TFA) first ever youth coaching clinic conducted by two local instructors Kilifi Uele and Lui Muavesi.
As four action-packed days of pure learning came to a wrap on Friday 26 June, participating youth coaches were challenged by Oceania Football Confederation’s (OFC) Technical Director Jim Selby to apply their newly acquired knowledge and skills in their respective clubs.
“Unless you go out coaching, you don’t get anywhere. Practice makes perfect,” Selby said.
The course was an eye opener for youth coaches in attendance. Ha’amoko youth coach Koli Vakatapu was one of those who says he gained many new insights during the intensive course.
“Now I fully understand how to be an effective coach and improve my structured game plan. I am confident my club’s performance will improve now,” Vakatapu said.
Marist coach Sophia Filo was also grateful to be a participant.
“This course has helped me to be able to communicate better and effectively transfer knowledge to my players.”
With the accreditation of 12 OFC youth coaches in Tonga, the TFA now anticipates a much improved performance from all clubs.
“It will not only improve the clubs’ performances but it will be reflected in our future national teams,” instructor Muavesi said.
“By prioritizing junior and youth levels for both female and male football, we are investing in nurturing the football standard for better development on the field,” Muavesi added.
The coaching course has been a huge success for TFA and has received extensive coverage from the local media. With Tongatapu covered, TFA will conduct similar youth coaching clinics in Vava’u in the near future.
Story and photo courtesy of TFA Media