AIFF launches academy certification programme

The All India Football Federation on Thursday launched the 'AIFF Academy Certification', which aims to set a standard of youth development in the country through a certification model.

The AIFF has developed a set of criteria on which the academies will be assessed and certified and they will be given a rating as per the points gained by each academy on the criteria.

The concept has been developed by the AIFF's technical department.

The certification criteria will primarily be based on the following aspects of the academy - coaching staff and qualifications, facilities, youth development and teams supported, training schedule, training sessions, curriculum, scouting network, medical facilities, schooling, accommodation (if residential), travelling, kitting, etc.

Based on the number of points the academy earns on the criteria, it will be rated between 1-star (lowest) to 5-star (highest). This certification will be applicable for a year after which the certification will have to be renewed.

AIFF technical director Robert Baan said the process is the "next milestone" in the development of youth football in the country.

"Certification of residential as well as non residential academies is part of our AIFF's Master Plan 'Lakshya'. It is the next milestone in the development of youth football in India. It will give the academy directors as well as their coaches a guideline of the level of coaching as well as the structure of the academy," Baan told www.the-aiff.com.

"It also will assist parents and players to make the right choice for their son or daughter where and how they can develop their talent and skills. Finally as a result of the certification academy staff as well as players will benefit," he added.

National team coach Wim Koevermans expressed confidence that the initiative would benefit India in a big way.

"Players need to be given top quality football education from an early age and continuously at each level of their development. It is hence essential that the academies providing such football education are equipped with the know-how and also know what is required for development of players," he said.

The certification will be applicable for both residential and non-residential academies.