IFCPF Launches First Advanced CP Football Coaching Course in Kazakhstan
IFCPF Launches First Advanced CP Football Coaching Course in Kazakhstan
Astana, Kazakhstan – A groundbreaking step in the global development of CP Football was taken in June, as the International Federation of CP Football (IFCPF) delivered its first Advanced Coaching Course in Astana, Kazakhstan. The pioneering programme, made possible with the support of UEFA and in close collaboration with the Kazakhstan Football Federation (KFF), marked a significant moment for inclusive football education.
Held from July 2-4, the course brought together 13 caoches from across Kazakhstan, representing a wide variety of roles in disability football—from grassroots coaches to national-level staff. Over three days, participants engaged in a dynamic blend of theory and practical sessions focused on the specific demands of coaching players with cerebral palsy.
Pioneering Education for Inclusive Football
This was the first time IFCPF has delivered a coaching course of this level, with a tailored curriculum aimed at enhancing the quality, consistency, and impact of CP Football coaching at the elite level. Delivered by IFCPF Coach Developers Sam Turner and Mohamed Zainudeen, the course focused on player development, game formats, inclusive coaching methodology, and high-performance planning.
"I am glad to be here in Astana where we are running the first advanced coaching course for CP Football coaches. In 2017 we held an introductory course, and now we can see that this type of football is developing in Kazakhstan." said Sam Turner, IFCPF Football Director. "I note that many teams in different cities and many players are appearing. Now, Kazakhstan is developing its national championships and also working on the development of its national team. I am sure that all players have fantastic opportunities to play football just like everyone else."
KFF: A Committed Partner in Inclusive Football
The initiative would not have been possible without the innovative leadership and commitment of the Kazakhstan Football Federation (KFF). Through its Football for All programme, KFF has made inclusion a core pillar of its development strategy. Hosting the IFCPF course further demonstrates its vision to build sustainable pathways and raise awareness of disability football across the country.
"This is a very important project and a very important workshop for our country because it is a Advanced category course. Now we have only 13 coaches from nine regions of Kazakhstan who are being trained." said Chingiz Temirkhanov, KFF Social & Sustainability Officer & Head Coach for the CP National Team. "At the moment we have five teams. I hope to launch four more teams this year. We also plan to gather the first women's team in Astana. This will be a big boost in the development of CP football."
UEFA’s Support Drives Change
The project received support through UEFA’s Football Sustainability Strategy, particularly under its Equality, Diversity and Inclusion pillar, which aims to break down barriers and empower underrepresented groups in football. By backing this course, UEFA continues to play a key role in fostering a more inclusive football landscape across Europe.
UEFA’s commitment to initiatives like this reflects a broader mission to use football as a force for social change, in line with its strategic goals through 2030.
Looking Ahead
Following the success of the course in Kazakhstan, IFCPF will look to roll out similar programmes in other regions, helping to build a global network of skilled CP Football coaches. The long-term goal is clear: to ensure that players with cerebral palsy have access to high-quality coaching and can thrive in a sport that celebrates ability, diversity, and potential.
“This is only the beginning,” added Sam Turner. “With the right partnerships, we can continue to raise standards and open doors for more players and coaches around the world.”
Para Football congratulates IFCPF, KFF, and UEFA on this milestone and looks forward to seeing more innovative collaborations that shape the future of inclusive football.
