Teaching secondary school students the “Laws of the Game of Futsal” is an exciting opportunity to encourage development in all aspects of football.

Cook Islands Football Association (CIFA), along with Oceania Football Confederation (OFC) and Fédération International Football Association (FIFA) are committed to nurturing young talent and providing opportunities for growth and advancement in the sport. By introducing students to the intricacies of Futsal, they will gain a better understanding of the game and be better prepared for assessments.

CIFA’s Referee director Rakesh Varman took the opportunity to teach students of Tereora College the Laws of the Game which cover everything from ball size and court dimensions to fouls and penalties, ensuring that players have a comprehensive understanding of what is expected of them on the field.

With the knowledge gained, students would not only be assessed by the teachers, they will gain and develop their skills and become confident players ready to engage in a friendly match with their peers, led and organised by themselves.

The introduction of futsal in two of the students' Physical Education classes has resulted in an invigorating learning experience.

Guided by the expert tutelage of Varman, students eagerly absorbed the fundamental laws governing this fast-paced sport. The theoretical aspect of their training culminated in the successful completion of the basic referees' worksheet, showcasing a solid grasp of futsal's underlying principles.

CIFA’s development officer Daniel Taokia joined Varman for the engaging third session, the class was presented with an invaluable hands-on experience in the dynamic sport of futsal.

By taking on the role of referees, students were not only exposed to the rules and regulations of the game but also gained a true understanding of the rapid pace at which futsal matches unfold. The lesson proved to be a striking demonstration that emphasised the importance of quick decision-making, effective communication, and adaptability in real-world situations. Through this interactive learning approach, students were able to develop essential skills that extended far beyond the realm of sports, fostering qualities that would contribute greatly to their personal growth.

Taokia was instrumental in supporting Varman by offering invaluable advice, clear instructions, and teaching techniques to students to effectively identify fouls, penalties, and other critical aspects of the game. These educational efforts have greatly contributed to fostering an enthusiastic learning environment for aspiring players

Varman actively encouraged students with a keen interest in pursuing careers as referees to reach out to either himself or CIFA through their teachers to learn more about the opportunities available.

As the students progress, both in their assessments and during the friendly match, the impact of Varman and Taokia's mentorship will undoubtedly be evident, reinforcing the importance of such hands-on learning initiatives.

• CIFA Media