Beach soccer has reached a new level of development in Samoa, as they hosted their first-ever FIFA Beach Soccer Coaching Course earlier this month.
The five-day course saw 25 participants combine at the Federation Football Samoa (FFS) headquarters in Tauanaimato, Apia.
It was facilitated by American-based FIFA instructor Ramon Raya, with a key focus on teaching the role of a coach, technical skills, goalkeeping and beach soccer training.
There was also an emphasis on the buy-in of local coaches for beach soccer’s growth and success.
Raya told the FFS website that the introduction of beach soccer will add to Samoa’s development plans and provide another avenue for players to pursue.
FFS Technical Director Jess Ibrom echoed Raya’s thoughts.
“Firstly, Ramon was an excellent FIFA instructor. His experience was invaluable for the participants to listen to and learn from somebody so knowledgeable,” Ibrom said.
“We noticed that beach soccer is an area that needs developing in Samoa as it’s a new concept for the Federation.
“Tahiti and the Solomon Islands are phenomenal examples of what can be achieved in beach soccer from Member Associations in the Oceania region.
“Here in Samoa people want the opportunity to experience different forms of the game and so it is important that these opportunities are provided.
“There is a real thirst for development, and we are committed to seeing this grow at all levels.”
