In a significant boost for football development in Tonga, the TDS (Talent Development Scheme) Centres in Tongatapu have been fully equipped with the latest training gear, ready to take the first steps toward nurturing the next generation of elite players. The distribution of the equipment, overseen by TDS Manager Hemaloto Polovili, marks a pivotal moment for the island’s football aspirations.
Hemaloto Polovili distributed training equipment and gear to two TDS Centres in Tongatapu: Vahe Kolo/Hihifo and Vahe Hahake. Vahe Hahake, which will base its training at the Lapaha FC Field, received their equipment first. Shortly after, the Vahe Kolo/Hihifo Centre received theirs at the Longolongo FC Field, where their training sessions will take place over the coming months. Meanwhile, the Vahe-Loto Centre had already received its equipment earlier, ensuring that all three centres in Tongatapu are now fully operational.
Each centre received an impressive array of training gear, including:
- 30 footballs
- 2 sets of bibs
- 4 ladders
- 2 large portable goals
- 4 pairs of small portable goals
- 1 large first aid kit
- 30 sets of TTC and DC uniforms
- 1 backpack
- 4 goalkeeper kits with gloves
- 40 cones and 2 sets of markers
- 12 hurdles and 1 set of rings
- 12 agility poles
- 4 tracksuits for TDS coaches
- 4 training kits for TDS coaches
- 2 electronic whistles
Hemaloto emphasized the importance of having such up-to-date equipment in the training process. “What we are trying to do here is to create elite players for high performance. In order to achieve this, it is crucial for these young kids to be trained with the best equipment that will enhance their ability to become the best in Tonga,” Hemaloto stated on the TFA website. He added, “In the coming weeks, we’ll observe if there are improvements when they play in real matches, like the TFA Challenge Cup. If we see progress, we know we’re on the right track.”
The TDS Program is not only a leap forward in providing necessary tools but also a sign of the commitment to elevating the standards of football training in Tonga. Vahe Kolo TDS Coach, Moimoi Feke, expressed his gratitude for the equipment, stating, “First of all, I would like to thank the TDS Program and FIFA for such training equipment. This is a big step for football in Tonga, being able to train these kids with the right and complete equipment. This is what we need to take these players to the next level, far beyond what we had when we were still playing.”
Training at the TDS Centres in Tongatapu has already commenced, with coaches and players eager to make the most of the new equipment. Additionally, the Vava’u TDS Centre is set to launch this Saturday, further expanding the reach of the TDS Program across the island nation.
The future of Tongan football looks bright as these young talents now have access to the tools and training necessary to develop their skills and potentially represent Tonga on the international stage in few years to come.
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