KUALA LUMPUR: It's back to school for grassroots coaches as the FA of Malaysia (FAM) addresses increasing disciplinary issues at that level.
The national body has also suspended Akademi MZ for allegedly sparking a brawl with FCKL Eagles during an Under-16 Liga Suparimau match at the New Camp pitch in Damansara on Nov 5.
FAM secretary-general Datuk Noor Azman Rahman said Akademi MZ face punishment after being referred to the FAM Disciplinary Committee.
He said he had met with Football Coaches Association of Malaysia (FCAM) president, Datuk Ong Kim Swee, and discussed the remedial action at grassroots level.
"We have suspended Akademi MZ and the case has been referred to the Disciplinary Committee. We also want to improve the situation at grassroots coaching," said Noor Azman.
"We had a meeting with FCAM recently. They are alarmed with the issues at this level and felt that a refresher course is needed for grassroots coaching.
"FCAM will conduct a refresher course to remind the coaches of their responsibilities, FAM and FCAM take this matter seriously and we hope the coaches at the grassroots level will improve their coaching approach."
Noor Azman added that they had sent a report on the brawl to the Youth and Sports Ministry.
It is alleged that a coach had kicked a player in the brawl, leading to Youth and Sports minister Hannah Yeoh promising strict action.
Recently, the licence of the volleyball coach was revoked and he was prohibited from conducting any training activities after a video of him slapping two teen players went viral.
The coach slapped the two teenage girls during an Under-14 Youth Volleyball Championship in Kota Tinggi, Johor in January.