Tasmania has marked a significant milestone in the development of futsal, with Football Australia delivering its first-ever nationally recognised futsal coach education courses in the state.
Held in Hobart from 20 to 24 July, the program featured both the Foundation of Futsal and Football Australia/AFC Futsal Level 1 courses, providing local coaches with a unique opportunity to access nationally aligned coach education without needing to travel interstate.
The courses were delivered by Football Australia Futsal Coach Education Lead and Futsalroos Head Coach, Miles Downie, who worked with a passionate group of coaches committed to growing the game across Tasmania.
The week-long program combined theory and practical learning, focusing on modern coaching principles, player-centred approaches, game-based learning, and the technical and tactical demands of futsal. Coaches were challenged to apply contemporary coaching methods while developing a deeper understanding of how futsal can support player development and lifelong participation in futsal and football.
According to Downie, the courses represented an important step forward for the state.
"This is a landmark moment for futsal in Tasmania. Bringing Football Australia's futsal coach education pathway to Hobart for the first time provides local coaches with access to nationally recognised development opportunities and helps build the foundations for future growth."
Downie was particularly impressed by the enthusiasm and engagement of the participants throughout the week.
"The passion shown by the coaches was outstanding. There is a genuine desire within Tasmania to grow futsal and create better experiences for players. Coach education is one of the most powerful ways to support that growth."
A major outcome of the visit was the training and development of Jayden Hey as a Foundation of Futsal Tutor, providing Tasmania with local coach educator capability for the first time.
The appointment is expected to significantly enhance the accessibility of futsal coach education within the state, allowing more entry-level courses to be delivered locally and creating a sustainable pathway for future coach development.
"Developing local coach educators is critical for long-term success," said Downie. "Jayden has demonstrated a strong commitment to futsal and a real passion for supporting coaches. Having a locally trained Foundation of Futsal Tutor is a huge boost for Tasmania and will help ensure coach education opportunities continue to grow."
The successful delivery of the Foundation of Futsal and Football Australia/AFC Futsal Level 1 courses reflects Football Australia's ongoing commitment to expanding futsal coach education across the country and strengthening pathways for coaches, players and clubs.
With increased local expertise, passionate coaches and growing interest in the game, the future looks bright for futsal in Tasmania.
"Coach education is about creating better environments for players," Downie added. "By investing in coaches, we invest in the future of the game. The momentum generated during this week shows Tasmania is well placed to continue developing a strong futsal community for years to come."
