More than 30 coaches graduate from Jamaica Football Federation education programme

More than 30 coaches have taken a significant step in their local football careers by graduating from the Jamaica Football Federation's latest coaching education programme.

The recent cohort completed three certification pathways: the goalkeeper C licence, the physical trainer C level, and the CONCACAF coaching C diploma.

Chase Roberts, head of coaching education at the JFF, said the programme is intended to develop more qualified coaches and lift the standard of football across the island. "We are trying to create an ecosystem where our coaches are not just knowledgeable about what happens on the field, but our coach education programme focuses on what happens off the field as well," he said. "When we are able to create that structured environment, the coaching qualifications then become transferable across environments." As C-level members within the CONCACAF coaching framework, he added, Jamaica can now position its coaches to work across the region.

Among the graduates was Abigail Mullins, who enrolled in all three courses. She said the decision came easily and that she hopes more women will pursue coaching and football development opportunities. "I really want to change how females play football and their physique because we tend to lack that in our Premier League," she said, noting her interest in reshaping personal training for female players.

Michael Graham, who plays for Chapel Maroon, said he was inspired to take the course after years around coach Craig Butler. "I've been around him since the age of 8 years old and I've learned a lot from him," he said. "I just feel like I really wanted to further my football career as a coach and a player based on the things that I've learned from him and other coaches."

Through continued investment in coaching education, the JFF said it remains committed to strengthening the technical foundation of the game and developing qualified coaches equipped to guide the next generation of Jamaican footballers.