The Cook Islands Football Association (CIFA) is pleased to announce that Penina Katuke (grassroots development officer) and Teretia Teinaki (futsal development officer) have been selected to participate in the upcoming OFC Player Development Diploma Programme.

This exciting initiative is designed to strengthen the capability of coaches across the region, helping them to support player growth at every stage of development.

Since joining CIFA in November 2024, both Katuke and Teinaki have already made positive contributions to football development in the Cook Islands.

As part of her role, Katuke has initiated and will lead the FIFA 4 Schools Programme – a major project aimed at integrating football into schools across the country.

Working closely with the Ministry of Education, Katuke will ensure that young students gain access to football in a fun, structured, and educational environment, laying a strong foundation for the sport at the grassroots level.

Meanwhile, Teinaki has successfully established the nation’s first local futsal league, providing regular competition opportunities for players ranging from Under-10 to Open age groups.

She also has plans to expand the league to include walking futsal – making the sport accessible to older community members and promoting an inclusive, lifelong connection to the game.

Both staff members are excited to take part in the OFC Player Development Diploma Programme, which will provide them with modern coaching methods, international best practices, and tools to enhance their current work.

The knowledge and skills gained will not only benefit their own professional development but will also help raise the overall standard of football delivery in the Cook Islands.

CIFA looks forward to the ideas, inspiration, and expertise they will bring back from this valuable opportunity.

The Association thanked Phill Parker, OFC Player Development Officer, and the OFC Football Development Department for offering this pathway of growth and development for our local football leaders.

• CIFA Media