In a landmark step for inclusive football development, the All India Football Federation (AIFF) successfully concluded its first-ever D Certificate Coaching Course for deaf candidates on Sunday, June 7, 2025. The pioneering six-day programme was hosted at the Reliance Foundation Young Champs facilities in Navi Mumbai and conducted under the aegis of the Western India Football Association (WIFA).
The course saw participation from 23 active football coaches, all affiliated with the Indian NGO Slum Soccer, which works to uplift marginalised communities through football. This groundbreaking initiative reflects AIFF’s commitment to making coach education accessible to all, irrespective of hearing ability.
Leading the course was AIFF Lead Coach Educator Shailesh Karkera, whose expertise was complemented by the presence of two Indian Sign Language (ISL) interpreters from Slum Soccer. This ensured that the entire programme was fully accessible and inclusive for all participants. AIFF’s Head of Coach Education, Vivek Nagul, was also present to lend his support and guidance throughout the course.
Introduced in 2012, the AIFF D Certificate is the Federation’s entry-level coaching qualification and serves as the foundation for India’s football coaching pathway. To date, the AIFF’s Coach Education Programme has registered around 16,000 coaches nationwide.
The curriculum combines theory and practical sessions, with a strong focus on children’s football, technical skill development, and child safeguarding. The course also emphasises the fundamentals of planning and delivering age-appropriate training sessions, equipping coaches to create positive learning environments for young players.
“This course marks an important milestone for inclusive coach education in India,” said Shailesh Karkera. “It was inspiring to see the enthusiasm and dedication these coaches brought to the sessions every day. With the support of Indian Sign Language interpreters and the commitment of Slum Soccer, we were able to create a truly accessible learning experience.”
By opening its coach education pathway to deaf coaches, the AIFF has reaffirmed its vision of a more diverse and inclusive football ecosystem — one that empowers everyone to contribute to the beautiful game.
