The much-awaited Asian Football Confederation (AFC) C Diploma Coaching Course, under the All-India Football Federation (AIFF), got underway at IG Stadium in Kohima. This is the second time that Nagaland has hosted the AFC C Diploma course in the state, with the earlier session held in 2006. The course will conclude on May 16.
The two-week course is being organized by the Nagaland Football Association with William Koso, a coach educator for All India Football Federation and the Asian Football Confederation, serving as the instructor for the course. While Azho Sophie is the course coordinator for the two-week-long course at the state capital Kohima.
In his introductory speech, coach educator William Koso expressed hope that the coaches would make the best use of the course while adapting to the professionalism required of a football coach.
He praised the efforts of the Nagaland Football Association for bringing this much-needed course to the state, which will help local coaches to upgrade to a higher level. He added that C course give coaches to manage youth teams and clubs in AIFF recognised tournament that compete in the state leagues once they complete the course.
Koso emphasized that grassroots development is crucial for the growth of football and expressed hope that the NFA will continue to organize such events to train coaches in the state. He also appreciated the Department of Youth Resources and Sports for providing the facilities needed to host and organize this national event programme for football coaches.
In the AFC C Diploma Course, 21 coaches from across the districts of Nagaland, including one from Assam and one from Lakshadweep, are participating in the diploma course.During the course, the candidates will undergo in-depth theoretical and practical training for two weeks.
According to the AIFF, only AIFF D Licence Coach are eligible to apply for AFC C course. The AFC C Diploma course aims to train coaches and develop their basic techniques and skills in football. It is designed to educate coaches on how to plan, organize, and deliver training sessions.
During the training, coaches are guided to develop and work on their moral behaviour and lifestyle. Adequate training is also provided for the protection of children, both on and off the field. The course duration was 11 days, consisting of theoretical and practical content. The assessments included three practical examinations and two theory exams, in addition to a brief dissertation presented to the class.
The trainees are Avval Hamza D S, Leketoulie Liezietsu, Bokito V Shohe, Neithovilie Chalieu, Vekuto Puro, Kechi Kulimbe, Khwetelhi Thopi, Kevingulie Hiekha, Tuntan Dailiam, Imlongchaba Chang, Shurhozelie Seyie, Changsang Ongbou, Viliebeizo Liezietsu, Haotinmang Thomsong, Yamchan Meyo, Mhasimhalie M Yhome, Vizoru Peseyie, Yhunshalo Kemp, Zakietuolie Khrodi, Gangangpou Rongmei, Joon Ali.