Enhancing Coaching Standards in Oceania: A Revolutionary Shift

**Enhancing Coaching Standards in Oceania: A Revolutionary Shift**

*By Marisa Hallam, June 10, 2025*

Oceania's coaching landscape is experiencing significant transformation, led by dedicated individuals focused on raising the standards of coaching across the region. The Oceania Football Confederation (OFC) recently organized a four-day intensive coaching course in Port Moresby, Papua New Guinea, aimed at enhancing the capabilities of over 150 accredited OFC coach educators. This initiative is part of a broader strategy to improve overall coaching quality, which is expected to ultimately benefit players throughout the Pacific.

Owain Prosser, the OFC Head of High Performance and Education, emphasized the importance of this course in elevating coaching standards. "We’ve got around 150 accredited OFC coach educators across the region now. The focus is on topping up their knowledge and showing them appreciation for their contributions," Prosser stated. The course successfully balanced theoretical knowledge with practical application, including hands-on sessions that allowed participants to practice their skills on the pitch.

The training not only aimed to enhance the delivery of OFC C Licence coaching courses but also sought to expand the capacity of member associations to conduct their own C Licence courses independently. Prosser noted, "We now have 16 individuals equipped to deliver and assess C Licence courses. The hope is this will pave the way for B Licence training in the future."

The course featured a world-class delivery team led by OFC education consultant Andy Hedge, praised by Prosser as “one of the best coach educators in the region.” Alongside Hedge, other notable contributors included Tracy Cunnington, OFC Education and High Performance Administrator, and regional educators Annabel Rao from Fiji and Margaret Aka from Papua New Guinea. This collaborative effort underscored the OFC’s commitment to elevating coaching standards across its member nations.

Prosser articulated the overarching goal of the initiative: improving the experience for players across the Pacific. He explained, “If we have better coach educators, we’ll have better coaches, and that means a better experience for players. It’s not just about technical improvement; it’s about helping players develop both on and off the pitch and keeping them engaged in the game.”

Reflecting on the course’s outcomes, Prosser noted the impressive growth and commitment displayed by participants. “From day one to day four, their delivery improved massively and it started at a high level. Watching them lead practical sessions on the final day, simulating real course environments, was a highlight,” he remarked. He commended the educators for their ability to balance practical coaching with reflective discussions, a complex skill they managed adeptly.

In a heartfelt message to the participants, Prosser expressed gratitude for their dedication, acknowledging the sacrifices made in terms of time away from family and work. “Thank you. We know it’s a big ask! Your attitude and effort were superb. Now, the challenge is to take what you’ve learned and apply it to improve coaching education in your countries. It’s a big thank you—and a big challenge,” he concluded.

As Oceania continues to strengthen its coaching framework, the hope is that these efforts will lead to a new generation of qualified coaches who can enhance player experiences and foster a thriving football culture across the region.

For more insights from Owain Prosser regarding the future of coaching in Oceania, watch the full interview linked below.