Source solomonstarnews.com

THE Oceania Football Confederation (OFC) and FIFA Technical staff have come together in Auckland this week to discuss long terms strategic plans for football, futsal and beach soccer.

 OFC Technical Director Jim Selby, FIFA Assistant Development Officer Patrick Jacquemet, Referee Development Officer Massimo Raveino, Referee Instructor Neil Poloso and FIFA Futsal Instructor Scott Gilligan are all working towards developing the OFC Technical Department Strategic Development Plan for 2009 - 2012.

 Selby says the workshops have been invaluable in terms of brainstorming new ideas.

 “As a result of these discussions, we’ve been able to modify existing technical activities so that we ensure the best possible outcomes for OFC and each Member Association (MA),” says Selby.

 “It’s about identifying issues that may hinder development in our respective areas and then collectively finding solutions.”

 Workshop topics have included the structure, content, delivery and assessment criteria for OFC Coach and Referee Accreditation Courses.

 Selby says the group has also discussed development pathways and methods of mentoring MA Course Instructors, players, coaches and referees.

Scott Gilligan, who joined OFC late last year as the Win in Oceania Futsal Project Manager, says the workshop has helped to build unity within the group.

 “We are all working in different areas but the principles in terms of development are the same,” says the former Australian Futsal Coach.

 “I know that my strategies for futsal are in line with the overall strategies of the OFC Technical Department and that gives me confidence in what I’m doing.

 "We have established effective communication so that we can assist each other in achieving our individual goals.”

 Selby says he is excited about developing the new strategic plan and believes it will ensure the continued development of football, futsal, beach soccer within Oceania.  – OFC