Comprehensive programme needed to develop football – FAM veep
TENOM: Football progress in the country requires a comprehensive programme, besides patience and a change of mentality and commitment from all sides, said Football Association of Malaysia (FAM) vice-president, Joehari Datuk Ayub here.
"The rapid development of football will grow stronger with the support of all parties, including SAFA in every district other than the sports associations and NGO bodies" he told reporters after officiating at the JJFC Football Carnival programme for the age group 8 to 15 years at the town field here yesterday.
According to Joehari, who is also the Sabah Football Association vicepresident, the efforts undertaken by JJFC in conducting the programme need to be seen as a positive effort that can provide a shift to further advancing football not only in the district but also at the state and national level.
"We admit that many players at grassroots or district level have potential talents which can be highlighted to the highest level and through this programme, we can identify and highlight them for proper guidance and training," he said.
Meanwhile, JJFC club chairman and Tenom Umno Youth chief, Jamawi Jaafar, said the programme, which started in September last year, had received encouraging participation from children and youths including women in the district.
According to him, in terms of football development, team reconstruction from the grassroots level is seen to have a positive impact on the short, medium and long-term goals of the team.
"The programme also focussed on training and looking at the potential of talented players in preparation for the eventual taking over of existing players upon their retirement," Jamawi said.