by Fadhil Yunus
The National Football Association of Brunei Darussalam (NFABD) and Brunei Darussalam’s head coach Paul Smalley have agreed to part ways by mutual consent, with the Englishman ending a six-month stint at the national governing body.
Smalley’s sudden departure came amid the uncertainties brought about by impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic, which effectively resulted in all football-related activities nationwide coming to a standstill.
“I have thoroughly enjoyed my time at the Federation even though it has been for a short period and the challenges with COVID-19. I would like to take this opportunity to thank the President, General Secretary, my colleagues in NFABD especially the Technical Development Department, as well as the coaches and staff at all levels who have supported me so well,” he said.
Smalley, who also served as the Head of Player and Coach Development, has contributed to the development of the country’s football by providing knowledge to the local coaches through his expertise in coaching education as well as assisting them get their coaching badges.
He played an instrumental role in leading the National Programme for Coaching and Education and Learning of Coaches in Brunei for 2020.
The former technical and strategic director of the Bangladesh Football Federation has guided local coaches in line with NFABD’s vision to provide aspiring coaches with training, support and guidance to succeed in both club and international coaching at the highest level.
During his tenure, Paul Smalley conducted two coaching refresher courses participated by 43 qualified coaches who met the required revalidation requirements to keep their accreditation valid and current.
He also conducted two ‘C’ Coaching Certificate courses, one ‘B’ Coaching Certificate course, one ‘A’ Coaching Certificate course and one Coach Educator course, which brought NFABD to achieve AFC Coaching Convention B Diploma status.
President of NFABD Pengiran Haji Matusin bin Pengiran Haji Matasan said, “On behalf of NFABD, we thank Paul for his high standard of professionalism. NFABD appreciates his contribution.
“It is most unfortunate that there are uncertainties and unprecedented anxieties brought about by COVID-19. NFABD wishes Paul Smalley well in his future undertakings.”
Smalley was formally announced as the new national head coach for Brunei Darussalam last November. He has not had the opportunity to take charge of the national team in any international match as there had been no exhibition or competitive matches since his appointment.