FIFA and the Somalia Football Federation recently concluded a five-day grassroots course which was the second of its kind to take place in the country in recent years.

The course was attended by 21 coaches who were given tips by FIFA Instructor Ulric Mathiot on how to educate youngsters through football and make them love the game.

The culmination of the course came on Tuesday when 250 boys between six and 12 years old took part in a football festival held at the National Technical Centre. During the festival the coaches exercised what they learned and were practically examined.

“In the first day of the course, these coaches had no idea of what grassroots is, but now I can see that they benefitted a lot and they did well to pass their knowledge to the kids” said Mathiot.

“I saw great team work and that is good for football development. Here in Somalia, I always see people working together and with togetherness we reach our goals. The course participants were very determined and in the end I am very happy that they know what exactly grassroots is and they are now ready to pass their knowledge to Somali children.

“Somalian football is growing up. Somalia is making a lot of progress and FIFA is committed to developing football in this country.”

Somali FA president, Abdiqani Said Arab thanked FIFA for the fourth FIFA development course which was held in the country this year and vowed that grassroots courses would continue in the future.

“Grassroots program is where football development is stars from, he said. “Without knowledge it will be very difficult to develop football and to realise our dreams. We always prioritise our desire to increase our footballing knowledge.”