The AIFF-FIFA Capacity Building for Coaches 2025–26 programme concluded successfully at the AIFF National Centre of Excellence in Kolkata on October 15, 2025, marking an important step in enhancing the quality of football coaching in India. The three-day initiative saw the participation of 27 coaches from across the country, providing a platform for intensive learning and professional development. The programme focused on a comprehensive curriculum, including theoretical sessions, practical exercises, and mentoring modules aimed at strengthening both the technical and tactical knowledge of coaches. Experts from the AIFF Coach Education Department, including Technical Director Sabir Pasha, Head of Coach Education Vivek Nagul, and Coach Educator Jeddy Almeida, delivered sessions covering modern football concepts, player development, game model evolution, team management, and leadership skills. The workshop also emphasized critical areas such as fitness management, injury prevention, load management, and psychological aspects of coaching. Participants engaged in live demonstrations and small-sided games, allowing them to apply theoretical concepts in practical scenarios and develop better decision-making skills. The capacity-building programme concluded with a certificate distribution ceremony, recognizing the coaches’ successful participation and commitment to improving their expertise. By equipping coaches with advanced knowledge and practical skills, the AIFF-FIFA initiative seeks to elevate the standard of football training in India and create a pipeline of well-trained professionals who can nurture young talent effectively. The programme also facilitated networking opportunities among coaches from different regions, fostering a collaborative environment where ideas, challenges, and solutions were shared. This capacity-building initiative is part of AIFF’s broader strategy to professionalize football coaching in India, align domestic practices with international standards, and ensure sustainable growth of the sport at all levels. By investing in coach education, AIFF aims to create a stronger foundation for player development, enhance competitive performance in domestic and international competitions, and contribute to the long-term success of Indian football. The programme highlights the importance of continuous learning, innovation, and adherence to modern football practices, preparing coaches to meet the evolving demands of the sport and inspire the next generation of footballers.


