It all started with a packed bag in Ipoh, a long flight from KL to Kota Kinabalu, and a heart full of anticipation.
Before diving into two of the most intense weeks of my coaching journey, I gave myself a moment to breathe — a night at my parents’ house in KK, followed by another night in my hometown, Tambunan. That brief detour reminded me what home feels like. Then, on the morning of 30th September 2024, I drove solo to Keningau, Sabah, ready (and slightly nervous) for what was ahead: the AFC Diploma Coaching License course, organized by the Keningau Football Association.
From October 1st to 15th, 2024, I was one of only three women in the course — something that still makes me incredibly proud. But from day one, I felt supported. The other participants, despite coming from different coaching backgrounds and experiences, were uplifting, collaborative, and genuinely eager to grow together. There was zero ego. Just pure love for the game.
The course itself? Tiring. Demanding. Absolutely rewarding. And without a doubt — the most fun coaching course I’ve ever attended.
Maybe it was the familiar breeze of the Sabah hills, maybe it was the little escape from my usual rigid schedules, or maybe it was just the right people at the right time. But everything clicked. The sessions were rich with learning — both on and off the field. And the instructors? Nothing short of inspiring.
Special thanks and deep respect to Coach Wan Jamak and Coach Omar, two incredible mentors who brought the course to life with their deep knowledge and unshakable passion. They didn’t just teach — they empowered.
✏️ What I Learned
This course pushed me — not just physically, but mentally and emotionally. I learned how to:
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Design high-level training sessions that balance intensity with purpose
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Manage different types of players and personalities on and off the field
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Break down match footage and extract key learning points
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Plan microcycles with clear goals and progression
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Reflect on my own coaching style and improve how I communicate and lead
It wasn't just about drills and tactics. It was about becoming a better version of myself as a coach and leader.
🌟 Top 5 Takeaways
- Preparation is everything — Whether it's your session plan or your sleep schedule, how you prepare determines how you perform.
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People make the course — The support from fellow participants and the encouragement from instructors made the long hours worth it.
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The ‘why’ matters more than the ‘what’ — Knowing why you run a certain drill, why you give a certain instruction, or why a session is structured a certain way deepens your impact as a coach.
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Time management is key — Balancing enough rest with peak performance during both theory and practical sessions made all the difference. Being organized helped me stay sharp.
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Representation matters — Being one of the few women in the course reminded me how important visibility is. We belong on the pitch, in the classroom, and on the sidelines.
⚽ Tips for Anyone Taking This Course
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Pack for rain and shine. Sabah weather has a personality of its own — be ready.
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Record your sessions and reflections. You’ll want to revisit them later.
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Speak up during discussions. The conversations are gold, and your voice adds value.
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Make friends. You’re all in it together — lean on each other.
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Embrace the challenge. It’s intense, but trust the process. You’ll come out stronger.
I came into the course wanting to level up. I left with more than just a diploma. I left reminded of why I coach. Reconnected with where I’m from. And recharged with a deeper sense of purpose.
Here’s to the next step — and to always remembering where it started. ⚽✨
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