When asked how far Nikola Velkovski wants to take his coaching, nothing stopped him from answering with the highest coaching qualification the world has to offer.

Yes, that’s right, the UEFA Pro License is what Velkovski hopes to be accredited with one day.

“I always like to push myself to the next stage and the next one, and so on,” Velkovski said.

“I want to continue coaching, learning and improving. One day I want to have the New Zealand Football A License and the Pro License.”

Nikola recently attened the NZF Senior Level 2 / Youth Level 3 Coaching course and has always loved the beautiful game but didn’t take up coaching until he realised there weren’t enough of them around.

“From a young age football has been something that I really enjoy. I have loved the game ever since the very beginning, the old two pairs of shoes on each end of the street and playing until late will never get old.

“In terms of coaching, I think New Zealand doesn’t have enough coaches. When I say coaches, I mean qualified and modern coaches that will really develop the youth in New Zealand.

“A proper ongoing development for the youth will improve the quality of New Zealand Football by having more choice of good players.

“I think I can help this happen,” Velkovski added.

And, he is well on his way too, with the backing and support from both East Coast Bays where he coaches their U-17s, U-19s and Development side and NFF.

“East Coast Bays has been great in furthering my development into a more professional coach.

“From watching David Mulligan do his thing and learning the right way, to sending me to football courses so I can deliver my knowledge and skills to my teams.

“NFF have also been very supportive throughout my journey by providing the tools I need to progress further and have provided opportunities for me to coach youth teams at tournaments.”

Photo: Nikola Velkovski in action for the Northern Futsal National League team vs Auckland. Credit: Phototek

Keen to find out how NFF can help you on your coaching journey, or interested in getting started? Get in touch with NFF Coach Development Officer Korouch Monsef for further information.