The Fiji Football Association (Fiji FA) has taken a significant step towards enhancing the development of young footballers by launching grassroots goalkeeper training programs at its three academies in Ba, Labasa, and Suva.
This initiative, which commenced today, aims to nurture aspiring goalkeepers and equip them with the technical and tactical skills required to excel at higher levels of the game.
In Ba, the training will be conducted by Fiji’s national goalkeeper coach, Sanaila Waqanicakau, whose experience with top-level football is expected to benefit the participants greatly.
Shamal Kumar, a former national goalkeeper and Labasa player who also served as a Fiji FA development officer, will lead the sessions at the Labasa Academy. His deep understanding of the game and local talent are anticipated to inspire young goalkeepers in the northern region.
Meanwhile, at the Suva Academy, Ricardo Ferrando Gusta, an experienced goalkeeper coach from Spain, has volunteered to lead the training. Ricky’s international expertise brings a unique perspective to the program, allowing participants to learn techniques and strategies used in European football.
Fiji FA’s grassroots program is part of its broader strategy to develop football talent at the grassroots level. It focuses on specialized positions such as goalkeeping. This training is expected to not only identify promising talent but also strengthen the overall quality of goalkeepers in Fiji’s domestic and national teams.
Fiji FA Head of Talent Development South Sushil Singh says goalkeepers are a crucial part of any team, and this program is designed to ensure that we build a solid foundation for the future.
“With experienced coaches and international expertise, we are confident that this initiative will produce outstanding results, “said Singh.
“The program is open to young players across the country who are keen on pursuing a career in football as goalkeepers.
Singh encouraged parents and aspiring players to take advantage of this opportunity to learn from some of the best mentors in the field.
More details check out the poster attached,