Ernest Mtawali eyes Pro-coaching licence

Under-20 Malawi soccer team coach Ernest Mtawali says he wants to become the first local trainer to have a pro-coaching licence, the highest badge for a football coach, within the next two years.

The celebrated former Flames midfielder said this on Tuesday at Kamuzu Stadium in Blantyre after receiving his Uefa A-Level coaching certificate from the German Embassy deputy head of mission, Johannes Scharlau, following his success during a three-week course in the European nation last year.

Mtawali, who has become another Malawian highly qualified coach alongside South Africa-based former Flames defender Patrick Mabedi, said the sky is the limit in enhancing his coaching career.

He said he is aware that it requires a great deal of financial investment, sacrifice and strong will to attain the pro-licence, but he is determined to get it.

“The certificate I have received today brings great motivation to me as a coach. I am happy to attain this qualification. Nevertheless, I am still growing and I want to get a pro-licence in the next two years.

“Football keeps on changing all the time and it helps a lot if you do not relax, but aim to become a better coach. I am thankful to the German government, FAM and the Malawi government for helping me to enhance my career. It is now my turn to help myself go beyond this level,” said Mtawali.

On his part, Scharlau, who was accompanied by the German Embassy legal adviser Dennis Veenhuis and FAM chief executive officer Suzgo Nyirenda during the certificate presentation, said the training of Malawi soccer coaches is an ongoing programme.

On the same day, Scharlau donated 25 jerseys for the players, another five for the technical panel and 10 soccer balls to the national team.

He said the paraphernalia is a gift from the Germany Football Association.

According to Scharlau, Mabedi will receive his certificate through the German Embassy in Pretoria, South Africa.