St. Kitts and Nevis is set to see a significant boost in the quality of youth football coaching with the certification of 39 new coaches through the SKNFA Youth Coaches Training Program. In a ceremony held recently at the NBGC Technical Center in St. Peters, these coaches officially received their certificates, marking the completion of an intensive course designed to elevate the standard of coaching at the youth level.

SKNFA Technical Director Lenny Taylor, who played a pivotal role in the training, commended the newly certified coaches for their commitment and encouraged them to continue expanding their knowledge. "In coaching, as soon as you get cocky that you know it, that’s when you are going to hit your toe and fall on your face. It’s learning, learning, and more learning…get as much information as you can," Taylor advised. He emphasized that the ultimate beneficiaries of this education are the youth, who will now be guided not just to play the game, but to truly understand it.

The ceremony was also graced by SKNFA General Secretary Techell McClean, who spoke on behalf of SKNFA President Atiba Harris. She urged the coaches to take full advantage of the opportunities provided by the SKNFA to further their coaching education. "All coaches a part of the Concacaf region are to be certified," McClean said, noting that each league requires a certain level of coaching licenses. She reminded the coaches that the technical director remains available to assist those interested in advancing their qualifications.

The 39 newly certified coaches are a diverse group, each bringing their unique passion and skills to the field. Among them, Jhevon Hendrickson, Nequan Browne, and Jacquan Hazel were recognized for their outstanding dedication throughout the course. Tyquan Terrell and Shamaar Joseph demonstrated exceptional understanding of youth football dynamics, while Xalif Chapman and Jahmal Pitt were noted for their tactical acumen.

 Chevaun Matthew and Hakeem Huggins, along with De’Ashaan Hewlett and D’Jaun Warner, showed promise in developing strategic play among young athletes. Kaven Williams and Kassie Mardenborough, along with Yusuf Saunders and Alister Tuckett, are expected to contribute significantly to the youth football landscape with their fresh perspectives.

 Vinceroy Nelson and Kimlon Maynard, alongside Glenroy Buchanan and Ziquan Dorsett, were praised for their leadership qualities, which will be crucial in guiding young footballers. Other notable coaches include Calvert Dixon and Shakquan Hodge, who are set to make impactful contributions to their teams.

 The certification of these coaches represents a broader effort by the SKNFA to raise the standard of football in St. Kitts and Nevis, starting at the grassroots level. With the formal recognition of their skills, coaches like Clifford Brown, John Rowlands, and Sheldon Richards are now better equipped to foster the next generation of football talent in the nation.

 As the new coaches like Edward Henry, Lance Lewis, and Lydia Liburd begin their journey, they are joined by other promising individuals such as Dante Mardenborough, Shamika Caines, and Cedric Anthony. The group also includes Harold Wharton, Abasti Tyrell, and Shaquille Barzey, who are expected to lead by example in their respective communities.

 The certification ceremony was a proud moment for coaches like Julan Gordon, Deshaun Francis, and Jemari Trotman, who are eager to implement their newfound knowledge on the field. Antonius Archibald, MervonJae Pemberton, and Zajah Isaac round out the group of committed coaches ready to make a lasting impact on youth football in St. Kitts and Nevis.

 With these 39 newly certified coaches, the future of football in St. Kitts and Nevis looks brighter than ever. Their contributions are anticipated to not only improve the standard of play but also to inspire a new generation of footballers to achieve greatness on and off the pitch.