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Kids are back out on the pitch for the Football Federation American Samoa’s (FFAS) Grassroots Summer League, with a coaching course contributing to the lead up.
The Grassroots Summer League is an event for children aged between 4-12 years old who participate in football games on June 25, 28 and 30 and in the following week on July 2, 5, 7 and 9.
Eleven local football clubs are taking part – Ilaoa and To’omata, Taputimu Youth, Lion Heart, Vaiala Tonga, Black Roses, Royal Puma, Tafuna Jets, Green Bay, Utulei Youth, Pansa Youth and Pago Youth.
It’s the first kids’ football event since American Samoa was in lockdown due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
FFAS Women’s Development Officer (WDO) Saono Enesi said it’s been great to see people outdoors and enjoying football again.
“I was appointed as WDO just as the organisation was in the middle of putting everything together. It turned out well and I’m thankful to be working with our staff,” Enesi said.
“Seeing the kids active again was something we needed to see, it brought joy not only to our staff but to the community as well.”
As part of the preparations, the FFAS Technical Department delivered a 3-day MA D-1 Licence Coaching Course between June 16-18 to up-skill their coaches ahead of the league.
The event was conducted by FFAS Technical Director Rupeni Luvu, FFAS Men’s Development Officer Tapelu Tapelu, and with the assistance of FFAS Competition Manager Tunoa Lui.
Junior Si’a, from the Royal Puma Football Club said he joined the course to learn more about generating ideas, structure and planning in football.
“I learned how to plan ahead and deliver a message that best fits players depending on their age,” Si’a said.
“I really enjoyed learning the football basics and the importance of building a relationship with your players to make an impact.”
