Goemkapronn desk
PANAJI: Vedanta Sesa Goa’s flagship CSR Initiative, Sesa Football Academy (SFA) partnered All India Football Federation (AIFF) & Goa Football Association, in organising the AIFF ‘D’ License Course at its Sirsaim campus. This five-day coaching programme marked a significant step in the professional development of aspiring football coaches, offering them the foundational skills and knowledge required to embark on their coaching careers.
The program which was formally inaugurated by Ms. Leena Verenkar, Head of CSR,Sesa Goa, was a five-day course, structured to provide both theoretical and practical training, equipping participants with the skills and coaching nuances essential for launching careers in football coaching. This year’s batch comprised 24 participants, from across India. The nominated trainer for the batch was Mr Gavin Araujo, Technical Director, SFA and a certified AIFF Pro-Licence coach himself.
The ‘D’ License is the first step toward attaining coaching certification & is the introductory coaching certification offered by the AIFF. It is specifically designed to upskill coaches with the basic knowledge, skills, and understanding required to coach young footballers, typically at the grassroots level.
Speaking on the occasion, Ms. Leena Verenkar, Head-SCDF & CSR, Vedanta Sesa Goastated “The AIFF ‘D’ License Course provides a strong foundation for those who aspire to contribute to the developing football in India & to conduct coaching in a structured manner. We at Sesa Football Academy are honored to facilitate this program and play a part in shaping the future of football coaching in India.We have previously also been associated with this initiative and this is in line with our objective of aiding & supporting grass roots football.”
Expressing his sentiments on the occasion, Mr. Gavin Araujo, Technical Director, SFA, said “At Sesa Football Academy, we are committed to nurturing the future of Indian football by empowering aspiring coaches with the knowledge and skills they need to excel. Hosting the AIFF ‘D’ License Course is a testament to our dedication to fostering football talent at the grassroots level, and we are proud to support the participants as they take their first step towards becoming certified coaches.”
The course was open to participants from across India. It offered an invaluable opportunity for any individual with a passion for football to acquire the skills and knowledge necessary to begin coaching, irrespective of their prior involvement in the sport.The sessions conducted will benefit Indian football through sharing of best practices and development of precise coaching skills.
Mr. Winston, from Tamil Nadu, who opted for the AIFF ‘D’ License Course at SFA stated “It was a great learning experience at the Sesa Football Academy through the five day course as its also helped me bond with people from all across the country. The staff at SFA took good care of us & attended to the smallest of our needs. The coaching faculty paid attention to the smallest of details and provided us with key insights in the world of coaching. They patiently answered all our queries. I feel more confident now, to venture into the world of coaching.”
By facilitating the AIFF ‘D’ License Course, Sesa Football Academy reaffirms its dedication to advancing football coaching standards across India. This initiative not only enabled participants with the tools to inspire the next generation of footballers but also strengthens the foundation of grassroots football in the country. As these aspiring coaches embark on their journey, SFA remains committed to supporting their growth, fostering a brighter future for Indian football.
