The Premier League hosted the second edition of its NEXTGEN Coach programme in Mumbai from 10 to 13 October, bringing together 34 coaches from for a four-day development programme at the Cooperage Football Ground.
The programme was delivered by the Premier League’s international community coaches, supported by Indian coach educators who are alumni of the Premier League Primary Stars programme.
The initiative includes a coach-development programme focused on knowledge-sharing and the delivery of practical learning and experience to local community coaches. Through classroom and on-pitch sessions, participating coaches develop the tools and confidence to deliver football that is safe, inclusive and enjoyable for young people in their communities.
Premier League India Managing Director Hrishikesh Shende said, “Supporting grassroots football is a key part of the Premier League’s work in India. The NEXTGEN Coach programme brings our coaching expertise directly to local coaches, helping them develop young players and strengthen the game in their communities. By investing in local coaches, we can create far greater impact on the quality of football coaching available to young people across India.”
The Premier League Trophy was on display at the showcase event, which was also attended by the UK Secretary of State for Business, Science, Innovation and Trade, Jonathan Reynolds, and members of the Great North delegation- including the Mayor of the North East, Kim McGuinness, Mayor of Greater Manchester, Bev Craig and Mayor of the Liverpool City Region, Steve Rotheram- visiting India as part of its inaugural trade mission. The delegation brought together Mayors from across the Northern region of the UK, which is home to more than a third of Premier League clubs.
Secretary of State for Business and Trade Jonathan Reynolds said, “It was fantastic to see first-hand the impact the Premier League’s work is having in India, helping local coaches develop their skills and giving young people the chance to enjoy the game we all love.
“The League is one of our greatest exports and is a powerful example of how UK expertise can make a difference across the world.”