Last week, the Football Federation of American Samoa (FFAS) successfully hosted a dynamic coaching course aimed at elevating local football standards and developing grassroots talent for children ages 6-12 years old. Held at the FFAS field in Pago, the course brought together aspiring and experienced coaches from across the territory for a week of intensive training, practical sessions, and knowledge-sharing. Led by instructors Tapelu Tapelu and Diane Justus, the program focused on modern coaching techniques, youth development, and strengthening the foundation of youth soccer.
“The OFC MA Grassroots Coaching Course is designed to equip coaches with the skills and knowledge needed to work with young athletes at the foundational level. The focus is on development over competition, building a strong base for both the coach and the players.
This course is not just about coaching techniques; it’s also about building relationships and coming together as one. By the end of the program, everyone is on the same page, sharing the same knowledge and goals. Participants leave with the confidence, experience, and practical tools needed to be effective grassroots coaches,” says instructor Tapelu Tapelu.
From classroom sessions at the FFAS office to hands-on drills at the DYWA gym, the course gave local coaches the chance to boost their skills and connect with others who are just as passionate about growing the game. The coaching courses are held to assist the coaches in preparing for the upcoming Grassroots league, slated to kick off on June 24, 2025. Coaches were encouraged to collaborate with their peers from other clubs to brainstorm activities and helpful drills that they could use during practices.
“It was completed with very positive feedback from participants who are mostly former/current national and club players. Now, it is their time to take what they have learned here and use it to assist them in maintaining the grassroots programs in their clubs. They understand the importance of having a strong foundational base in developing these age groups, and we all look forward to seeing them on the field now and in the future.
Our Technical department will be supporting them by visiting them during club training to ensure they are empowered in progressing in their coaching experience. Moving forward, we are committed to supporting and growing alongside the coaches. It was an exciting 4 days, with so much positivity amongst the coaches as well as the parents and the kids who turned out for the festival on the final day,” added Diane Justus, assistant instructor.
The course concluded with a practical assessment and a group discussion, where participants reflected on what they had learned and shared their excitement for putting their new knowledge into action. Upon completion of their course, participants were joined by FFAS President Faiivae Iuli Alex Godinet and Chief Executive Officer Tavita Taumua. With the Grassroots League just around the corner, FFAS looks forward to seeing the positive impact these trained coaches will have on the next generation of footballers.
“This is the foundation the little ones need to grow their skills and talents. Our goal is to have them return year after year, to watch them progress from youth leagues to elementary, high school, national teams, and even at the professional level. But it all starts here. It starts with you.” – An encouraging message from President Faiivae Iuli Alex Godinet, shared with participants last week.
