The Croatian Football Association's long-term player development methodology was showed to Australian coaches at a major expo in Melbourne. Boris Kubla, the head of coach education at the Croatian FA and a UEFA PRO licensed instructor, was the keynote speaker at Football Victoria's Coaching Expo, held at the Home of the Matildas complex.
Kubla presented the comprehensive Croatian curriculum, detailing the structures and processes for developing footballers from the youngest age groups through to the senior national team. He emphasised how a small nation like Croatia must have a highly organised scouting network and progression pathway through different age groups to compete at the highest level. This need for a thorough structure is particularly evident in light of recent senior results, where the team has managed just one win and three defeats in its last four matches, including a run of three consecutive losses.
Lončarić as a bridge
The visit was greatly facilitated by Josip Lončarić, a respected Melbourne-based coach of Croatian heritage and a coach educator. Lončarić, who coached the Australian Croatian Boys' U14 Select team at a youth tournament in Vukovar last April, helped organise Kubla's trip and stay. Kubla singled him out for special thanks. "His kindness, generosity and attention made my visit both comfortable and memorable." Kubla said.
Lončarić, in turn, described Kubla as a humble mentor with a wealth of knowledge. He noted that one of the key takeaways from the Croatian approach is its structured and long-term focus on developing talented players, considering all the constraints a small nation must overcome.
Exchange of ideas
The event served as an opportunity for the exchange of ideas and networking among professionals committed to football's advancement. "It was a privilege to contribute to the event, exchange ideas, and connect with professionals who share a commitment to the continued development of football," stated Boris Kubla following the expo. He added that he looks forward to staying connected and continuing to contribute to the game's growth.
This display of the Croatian model comes as the senior national team prepares for a significant challenge. Following a 1-2 defeat to Spain in early October, where the lone goal was scored by Ivan Perišić, the team travels to face group leaders England in an away fixture on November 12th. It will be a chance for redemption after a heavy 0-7 loss to the same side just days earlier. The current form and results show the need for continuous work on developing young talent, which was the core of Kubla's lecture. The full schedule of upcoming national team commitments is available on the fixtures page.
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