The Philippine Football Federation (PFF) concluded its Grassroots Webinar Series for coaches and teachers last Saturday, 20 March 2021.
Over the past four weekends, participants were given a better understanding of the various PFF development programmes such as Women’s Football, Youth Football, and Futsal. In addition, participants were also briefed on the PFF Child Safeguarding programme which provides safeguarding measures to help prevent any risk of harm to children in football.
To further provide the participants with key insights in developing the game in their communities, three coaches were also invited to share their football development programmes in their schools.
| Topic | Speakers |
|---|---|
| PFF Women’s Development Programme | Ms. Isabella Fernando |
| PFF Futsal Development Programme | Mr. Kevin Goco |
| PFF Youth Development Programme | Mr. Reiji Hirata |
| PFF Child Safeguarding Programme | Ms. Lalaine Sarmineto Ms. Maja Año |
| Developing a Successful School-based Programme | Mr. Norman Fegidero Mr. Christopher Pedimonte Mr. Patrick De La Torre |
“The message we brought in this webinar was to make sure that we are able to guide them of the PFF’s plans for player development, and to provide the safe and proper conduct of football activities in our respective communities” said PFF Grassroots Head David Javellana. “May the various topics presented by PFF and our guest speakers serve as inspiration to all our participants.”
The participants also gave their insights on the webinar and how they can apply the learnings in their local setting in developing youth players.
“The speakers were able to share their topics in a way the it can be easily understood,” said Raymund Santillan, one of the participants from Negros Oriental-Siquijor RFA. “The webinar guided us on how critical the roles and responsibilities of being a coach in developing players.”
“We learned how to improve the development of players not only in football but also their character as a person on and off the pitch,” added Tuloy FC coach Kent Talam. “This was a big help for us coaches so that we can further expand our knowledge in teaching football to the youth.”
PFF general secretary Atty. Edwin Gastanes hailed the success of the webinar, which served as an avenue to reach out and to the various Regional Football Associations (RFAs) during the pandemic..
“We thank the PFF Grassroots Department for their successful hosting of the Grassroots Webinar Series for 2021,” said Gastanes. “With football activities still halted due to the pandemic, the webinar provided key insights to our RFAs coaches and teachers which can serve as a guide for them once football activities resumes in their areas.”
