Singapore's Football Fans Join the Search for Future Stars

December 29, 2023 — In Singapore, people love football. It’s not just about watching the game. It’s also about nurturing the next generation of talent. This was evident at a recent under-15 football match between Geylang International and Lion City Sailors at Jalan Besar Stadium. A group of about 20 individuals, including this reporter, gathered not just as spectators but also as part of a talent identification course launched by the Football Association of Singapore (FAS).

The Talent Identification Course

The FAS’s talent identification course started in early 2023. Kenneth Santa, FAS’ head of talent identification from Denmark, leads the course. Its aim is to provide basic insight and training for scouting gifted players at the academy level. The course is unique in its openness to individuals beyond the coaching fraternity, allowing anyone passionate about football to learn the art of scouting.

The course ran from September to October. It attracted 16 participants from various backgrounds. Some were looking for a career in football, while others were simply enthusiasts wanting to contribute to the sport. The course is in high demand. Sessions in January and March next year are already fully booked. This reflects the growing interest in football scouting in Singapore.

Course Structure and Fees

Spanning three sessions, each four hours long, the course costs S$299 per participant. This fee ensures that participants are genuinely interested in learning and contributing to the sport. The sessions combine theory with practical scouting exercises, emphasising hands-on participation.

Practical Learning Experience

Participants engage in practical exercises. For example, they learn to identify key performance indicators (KPIs) for players. They also learn football language and grading systems. Participants watch matches between teams in the FAS’ Centre of Excellence (COE) U-15 and U-17 youth leagues. They apply their learning, focusing on specific players and identifying top talents.

Challenges of Scouting

Scouting is not an easy task. It requires keen observation and quick decision-making, as experienced firsthand during the course. Participants learn to quickly identify players’ positions, preferred feet, and other key attributes. This skill improves with practice and exposure to more games.

Kenneth Santa emphasizes the importance of regularly attending games. This helps him accurately benchmark players’ levels. He encourages course participants to continue watching games even after the course. They should use the tools and knowledge gained to identify promising talents.

Building a Network of Scouts

The course aims to create a network of scouts. It could offer part-time and full-time scouting opportunities. Participants are encouraged to stay in touch with Santa and recommend players. This contributes to a system where fewer talented players fall through the cracks.

Singapore’s football scene is buzzing with individuals who have a heart for the game. The FAS’s talent identification course isn’t just about finding the next big star. It’s also about creating a community of knowledgeable and passionate football enthusiasts. This community can contribute to the growth and success of the sport in Singapore. Stay tuned to DEI for more updates.