Dhaka, March 18: Bangladesh Football Federation launched its third phase of development plan starting 2017 based on the hard work of the previous eight years from 2008.

Unlike UEFA member countries, the problem in Asian countries including Bangladesh, is a common one —lack of innovative, futuristic thinking. Activities around the national team and all other projects appear to be geared towards the present, rather than the future. However, the BFF plans to change such a mindset with phase 3 which aims to focus on 12 strategic pillars in the next 4 years.

A strategic approach in sports marketing, sponsorship, commercial scope, communications, coach education, national team and elite development, grassroots football development, women’s football, competitions, referee development and medical sciences development have been marked as the main goals.

The football federation currently enjoys a strong productive and trusting relationship with FIFA and AFC. The federation plans to develop on the relationship further during phase 3, which will eventually result in firm connections with external investors, partners and sponsors. Football will be the main catalyst for further partnership development of the BFF.

The BFF is also working to bring the federation under a departmental structure, which will deal with the demands of the future concerning the game. This will result in a multi-operational federation, which will not just meet the demands of the game at home, but abroad as well.

The federation has taken steps to boost ‘people to people’ connection in the third phase, which includes innovative social media and website platforms alongside other communication practices. The steps taken for mass communication will bridge the gap between the football community and the federation, resulting in an effective connection to help develop the game.

Another prime focus of phase 3 is to increase the number of skilled coaches in foundation, youth and senior football. The federation aims to implement modern and innovative coaching methods at all levels, and steps have been already taken to initiate coach education programmes throughout the country. A pathway for former international players to come into the coaching system is also being established. Specialised educational courses for positional players and goalkeepers will also be conducted during phase 3.

Female player development pathways and elite structural development has been evident in the past and success has been achieved within age group SAFF qualification tournaments. Whilst the achievements have been an example of long term thinking, phase 3 will continue to improve and refine the development infrastructure.

Elite national player development programme has been functional in the past, and will continue in phase 3. A national playing and development curriculum for elite players and teams is currently being developed. A long term approach has been taken for the national team and its elite player development.

The professional premier and championship leagues are a new, exciting and an excellent concept. The showcasing of the competition around Bangladesh is a visionary concept, which will help the relationship with the key stakeholders evolve. BFF will continue to encourage and support clubs and assist their staff wherever possible. Grassroots football is looked upon as an important concept.