Thu, 28 Oct, 2021
Singapore: The Football Association of Singapore (FAS) has started its first Asian Football Confederation (AFC) ‘C’ Coaching Certificate Course in this year attended by seven national players.
The eight-day course was inaugurated by FAS Technical Director Michael Sablon who shared the development plans and philosophies of the Association. It was attended by statutory body Sport Singapore coaches along with current and former national players.
ActiveSG Football Academy Principal and former national striker Aleksandar Duric, who was present during the course opening, said: “It is so important for the national team players to take this coaching course because these are the players we need for the development of football. They will not only be role models but also mentors to the younger generation who watch them on the field.”
“I was still playing when I took my first coaching course, and thought I knew everything as a player. But I realised that there are so many things that you miss by just playing. Coaching is totally different, and I encourage all our national players – in fact, all players – to attend a coaching course. This is also an opportunity for them to give back to the community so that the football family can become bigger and better.”
Filled with experienced coaches and players, the course has helped other coaches who attended to better understand the role of coaching. As for the national players from various clubs and stages of their career, the course has been beneficial for their own personal development.
Tampines Rovers defender Daniel Bennett said: “I’ve been wanting to do a coaching course for a long time because I’ve been playing for so long and there comes a point where you want to be involved on the other side. FAS’ efforts in helping us get our coaching qualifications is something I think every football association in the world should do. It’s a natural progression.”
Geylang International FC defender Faritz Hameed said: “It’s nice of FAS to arrange this for us. It’s a privilege that has been given to us and it’s also good because we can return the favour if we become coaches. The course has already changed me as a player – I understand better what the coaches think because I think like one.”
Photo: FAS