Oceania’s coaching landscape is undergoing a quiet revolution—and it’s being led by the people shaping the future from the sidelines.
OFC Head of High Performance and Education, Owain Prosser has reflected on a major step forward in coach education across the Pacific. A four-day intensive course in Port Moresby, Papua New Guinea, brought together some of the region’s brightest coaching minds, all with one goal: to raise the standard of coaching across Oceania.
“We’ve got around 150 accredited OFC coach educators across the region, now.” said Prosser. “the focus is on topping up their knowledge and showing them appreciation for their contributions.”
Aimed at enhancing the delivery of OFC C Licence coaching courses, it struck a balance between theory in the classroom and hands-on sessions on the pitch. It also included training on conducting assessments, expanding the capacity of member associations to run their own C Licence courses independently.
“We now have 16 individuals equipped to deliver and assess C Licence courses. The hope is this will pave the way for B Licence training in the future.” Prosser explained.
A world-class delivery team led the course including OFC education consultant Andy Hedge, whom Prosser described as “one of the best coach educators in the region.” Prosser and Tracy Cunnington, OFC Education and High Performance Administrator, supported the delivery, alongside regional educators Annabel Rao (Fiji) and Margaret Aka (Papua New Guinea).
The course focused on improving the experience for players across the Pacific.
“If we have better coach educators, we’ll have better coaches, and that means a better experience for players,” Prosser said.
“It’s not just about technical improvement, it’s about helping players develop both on and off the pitch and keeping them engaged in the game.”
Reflecting on the course, Prosser was impressed by the participants’ growth and commitment.
“From day one to day four, their delivery improved massively and it started at a high level. Watching them lead practical sessions on the final day, simulating real course environments, was a highlight.”
He praised the educators’ ability to juggle practical coaching delivery with leading reflective discussions, a complex skill that they handled admirably.
“Their enthusiasm, commitment, and standard of work were outstanding.”
To the participants, Prosser offered a heartfelt message:
“Thank you. We know it’s a big ask! Time away from family, work, and home. Your attitude and effort were superb. Now, the challenge is to take what you’ve learned and apply it to improve coaching education in your countries. It’s a big thank you—and a big challenge.”