As the festive season wraps up, the Cook Islands Football Association (CIFA) has reignited the passion for football among its youth by resuming the CIFA Under 16 Boys Academy training sessions.

The return to the pitch marks a continuation of the academy’s efforts to shape the future of football in the Cook Islands, with young players eager to jump back into the sport after the holiday break, CIFA said in a statement.

The academy’s training schedule is designed to maintain momentum with sessions held three times a week.

“This disciplined approach ensures that the boys remain engaged and focused on their development, as they work towards becoming the next generation of football talent in the Cook Islands.”

Leading the charge is CIFA academy director Jess Ibrom, whose expertise and vision for the programme are vital to its success.

Ibrom is joined by a team of dedicated coaches, including Ngati Manuela, George Ellis, and the newly onboarded Tyson Tekeu. Together, “they create a dynamic and supportive environment for the young athletes to flourish”.

The first training session after the festive season began on Tuesday, with the Under 16 boys displaying a renewed sense of determination and zest for the game.

The coaches introduced a blend of activities that not only focused on enhancing the players’ technical proficiency but also aimed to re-establish team dynamics and physical conditioning after the short hiatus.

CIFA said: “The boys’ excitement to resume training was palpable. They demonstrated a strong commitment to picking up where they left off, keen to continue their journey of improvement and to make the most of the opportunities that the academy provides.”

“The CIFA is deeply invested in the development of these young players, recognising that the post-festive return to training is a crucial period for setting the tone for the year ahead.”

The CIFA Under 16 Boys Academy serves as a crucial stepping stone in the players’ football careers, instilling not only skills on the field but also fostering attributes such as resilience, sportsmanship, and leadership.

With the Academy’s training back in full swing, the Cook Islands FA is looking forward to a year of significant progress and achievements.

“The continuation of the academy’s programme is a testament to the FA’s commitment to nurturing young talent and ensuring that football in the Cook Islands continues to thrive.”

• CIFA Media