Coaches’ complaints overshadow CAF A course opening ceremony

The first phase of trailblazing CAF A Licence coaching course started yesterday at Chiwembe Technical Centre where the opening ceremony was overshadowed by participants’ concerns over a lack of CAF-branded training uniforms.

With FAM president Walter Nyamilandu and general secretary Suzgo Nyirenda away, FAM executive committee member Flora Mwandira opened the month-long course that has pooled 23 participants who each paid K20 000 as participation fee.

Mwandira said the association was relieved that all participants were, after graduating from CAF B coaching course, attached to teams, adding that this was a sharp departure from the tendency of not applying knowledge.

Speaking at the event, lead course instructor John Kaputa challenged the coaches to make the most of the course which requires them to pass the subject Laws of the Game, lest they fail.

“This is an advanced coaching course which will last for 240 hours. CAF will be sending an examiner after two weeks. Another examiner will come at the end of the course,” he said.

After the speeches, the floor was opened for question time. Participants Tionny Mhone, Millias Pofera and Central Region Coaches Committee chairperson Dave Mpima took turns to query FAM over the lack of uniform.

“We respect you and you should also respect us. This is a high-level course, yet we will go back home without even a T-shirt. We will receive certificates, but not everyone can see it. These coaches are disgruntled, but they cannot speak out. They are afraid they will never be considered for the Flames job,” a charged-up Pofera said.

Earlier, Mhone said it was unthinkable for the participants to be asked to pose for a group photograph when they were dressed shabbily not befitting a high-level course.

Bravo Chiperesa also called for investment in primary school football and protection of coaches in the face of abuse, wondering:  “When shall a Malawian coach enjoy the fruits of their labour?”