Instead, 20 young women from around the country are filling the space as they attend a FIFA Women’s Coaching Course led by FIFA instructor and OFC Women’s Development Officer Nicola Demaine.
PNGFA General Secretary Dimrit Melang opened the course, calling it “a milestone in the history of PNGFA”, referring to the fact that there are no men attending this particular course.
“My challenge to all of you women here today is to take back everything you learn here to your associations,” Melang told the participants.
“The PNG women’s side are number one in the South Pacific, but number one is nothing if you don’t have a strong grassroots programme. That is where this course and you the coaches can make a difference, and keep us at number one.”
Melang says the vision of the Association is to have women coaching teams and eventually coaching the national women’s teams.
The FIFA Coaching Course will offer the opportunity to learn more about women’s football specifically and how to coach the different age groups in this field.
The participants have come from all around Papua New Guinea, including some from New Britain Islands, ensuring the knowledge gained will be spread to the women and girls in all areas of the nation.
Demaine said the course will conclude with a FIFA Girl’s Festival in Lae on Friday, with 250 girls expected to attend, which will provide the coaches the opportunity to put into practice what they have learned.
“A new era of women’s football starts today, and it starts with you,” Demaine said.
For more on Papua New Guinea football go to www.pngfootball.com.pg

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