FIFA Talent Development High-Performance Specialist, April Dawn Heinrichs is here in the country
for a five-day visit, laying the foundation of the FIFA Talent Development Scheme (TDS) that aims to
assist Member Associations (MA) and football federations worldwide.
This is part of the partnership with the Solomon Islands Football Federation (SIFF) to exchange
knowledge regarding talent development – a holistic approach to technical, and education projects
in which the world governing body has increased its investment to help them achieve their full potential
and reduce the disparity in the level of football between different regions of the world.
“It’s a global programme, we go to countries to ask questions, consultations, and partner with
federations and member associations to discuss how to develop players from age 12 years to 17
years of age,” Heinrichs said.
“How to improve players and coaches developing the game through a development pathway that
focuses on talent development.
Her visit includes identifying what changes can be implemented and improvements that can be
tailored to the Solomon Islands football concept.
“This programme is cautious on time, year, and the revolution in development because it changes
over time – after 10 years it changes,” she said.
“I hear a lot about the Solomon Islands football, the passion, the talents here, and for that, I’m
excited to learn more about it.
The Talent Development Scheme aims to help federations exploit their capabilities in the best way
possible, in discovering and developing talent and helping raise the level of men’s and women’s
national teams.
During her visit, she will be witnessing the national men’s team in training, the national futsal team
training, and the national women’s team starting tomorrow, Wednesday 17 May 2023.
“I will continue having several meetings here just to talk about talent development and what it takes
in giving every talent a chance, no matter where or when they are born,” Heinrichs stated.
