Some 57 grassroot football coaches in Embu have benefited from CAF D Level training by Football Kenya Federation (FKF).
The participants including seven females were certified after successfully completing a ten-day course in an event graced by Governor Cecily Mbarire.
CAF D License is the entry level coaching certificate and the trainees according to FKF Embu Branch Chairman, Charles Njagi, are expected to use the skills to promote and develop grass root football.
Speaking during the issuance of certificates to the coaches at Embu University Grounds, Njagi said the team is expected to play a pivotal role in identifying and nurturing young talents.
He said they expect them to start training programs in both primary and secondary schools for the under 13, 14 and 19 to identify talented footballers to enable them actualize their dreams.
“One of the biggest challenges we have had in the country in football is lack of trained coaches and I am happy that this team is going to assist in filling that gap,” he said.
Governor Mbarire promised to sponsor 30 of the coaches at Sh. 20, 000 each for the next grade of CAF C License in the coming financial year.
She said they had also embarked on a plan of developing and improving football infrastructure including stadiums and fields across the county to promote the game.
She said alongside Moi Stadium that is under rehabilitation and the upcoming Njukiri Sports Complex funded by the national government, her administration will also set funds aside to improve other playing fields including Runyenjes, Ishiara, Umau, Kairuri and Nembure in the next budget.
“We have also agreed with MCAs that we will level primary school grounds to make them suitable to prepare our young people for the upcoming Talanta Hela Program aimed at monetizing sports,” she said.
The participants were upbeat that the training will open doors of employment opportunities for them especially in schools as they seek to nurture upcoming talents.
“I know this certificate will secure me a job and I am also looking forward to keep advancing and hoping that one day I will become one of the best coaches in the country,” Coach Alfred Muchiri said.
Another participant Feliroy Ruguru who has been a player and coach said the training has assisted her improve her skills and professionalize her coaching career.
By Samuel Waititu
