A total of 27 participants from various regions of Fiji successfully completed a three-day Futsal Coaching Course at the Fiji Football Association (Fiji FA) Academy in Ba over the weekend. This course was notably the first conducted by national futsal head coach Jose Gerardo since he assumed his role with the Fiji FA.
Gerardo is committed to fostering futsal development across the country and commended the passion and enthusiasm displayed by participants throughout the course. He expressed his admiration for the dedication shown by the coaches, highlighting their crucial role in establishing a strong foundation for the sport’s growth within their communities.
“It’s always encouraging to see coaches showing this level of energy and commitment because they are the foundation for developing the sport in their communities,” Gerardo stated. The course covered a wide array of essential topics, including futsal tactics, coaching principles, player development, game management, and the unique philosophy that underpins futsal’s dynamic style.
Participants engaged actively, showcasing their eagerness to learn and apply new techniques to improve their coaching. Gerardo noted that the enthusiastic involvement and the exchange of ideas among coaches signified a genuine desire to enhance their skills for the benefit of their respective districts. “This makes me confident that the future of futsal in Fiji is heading in the right direction,” he remarked.
The course’s timing coincides with a critical phase in Fiji’s futsal journey, particularly as the sport has been gaining momentum among younger players. Gerardo emphasized that having well-trained coaches is vital for guiding this growth effectively. He explained that futsal is not merely a scaled-down version of football; rather, it is a unique game that equips players with faster thinking, smarter movements, and technical skills that are transferable to football.
This commitment to coaching development aligns with Fiji’s broader strategy to elevate standards across all sports, reflecting an investment in nurturing young talents. The recent surge in coaching programs, as seen in similar initiatives aimed at improving qualifications for both coaches and referees, highlights a collective effort within the Fiji FA to enhance the overall quality of sports in the region.
As these educational programs continue to unfold, there is growing optimism for the future of futsal in Fiji, fostering a vibrant sporting culture and improving pathways for local talent. With dedicated coaches and support from the Fiji FA, the nation is well-positioned for exciting advancements in futsal and football alike.

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