The Jamaica Football Federation (JFF) has taken a significant step toward reshaping the future of elite football coaching in the Caribbean, following the conclusion of a landmark technical visit from a joint Concacaf and UEFA delegation from June 8–13.

The visit is part of the planning phase for the much-anticipated Concacaf Pro Coaching Diploma, a new initiative aimed at elevating the standard of coaching across the region. Jamaica is one of four selected countries—alongside Mexico, Canada, and Honduras—to host these consultations.

This objective is to engage directly with coaches, clubs, and key stakeholders to gather valuable insights into the specific needs, challenges, and realities of the professional game in the Caribbean. These findings will inform the design and delivery of a regionally relevant and globally aligned Pro License coaching course, which is set to launch in 2026.

The visit included technical meetings with coaches in the Jamaica Premier League, as well as site visits to selected clubs, including Cavalier FC, Mount Pleasant Academy, Arnett Gardens FC and Montego Bay United, aimed at understanding local infrastructure and operational environments.

By 2030, all head coaches participating in Concacaf’s professional competitions, including the Concacaf Gold Cup, Concacaf Nations League, Champions Cup, and the Caribbean Cup, will be required to hold a Pro License as the minimum standard of qualification.

JFF President Michael Ricketts welcomed the initiative.

"This joint initiative by Concacaf and UEFA underscores the importance of collaboration in raising the standards of the professional game. It represents a bold step toward transforming the landscape of professional coaching in Jamaica and the Caribbean. Jamaica is proud to contribute to this process, and we are committed to ensuring our coaches have access to world-class training that prepares them for success at home and abroad," Ricketts said.

Andrew Peart, Head of Coach Education at the JFF, also shared his remarks.

"This visit represents a critical opportunity to ensure that the Pro Diploma reflects the lived experiences of our coaches. It is about creating a programme that responds to our context, our culture, and our ambitions. We are excited to share our insights and play a role in shaping the future of elite coaching in the Caribbean," Peart stated.

The JFF remains committed to working alongside regional and international partners to strengthen the football development ecosystem, raise coaching standards, and unlock new opportunities for Jamaican football at all levels.