Interview with Abdullahi Hassan

I was born in Somalia in 1988. Before I joined the Jason Robert Foundation (JRF) I was raised by my single mother with my sisters and brother. Life was difficult growing up in Wembley.

I have now been working for the JRF for a year and a half and my life has changed for the better. I first got involved in the JRF through my college’s (College of North West London) enrichment program. I have completed my Level 1 Coach Badge near the beginning of 2008, which enabled me to do voluntary work for a few months. Although I didn’t get paid, nevertheless I gained knowledge and experience which were priceless.

The JRF gave me the opportunity to coach overseas at Grenada in the summer of 2008. I spent two weeks coaching and working with some of the most experienced coaches around the country. I worked with coaches from; Blackburn Rovers FC, Birmingham FC, Charlton FC and Watford FC. These coaches gave me an insight into scope in the world of coaching football. I worked closely with Martin O’Connor - Walsall’s assistant manager and Dean Holtham - Birmingham community Director. I started from sorting the bibs and counting the cones out to managing and directing the base camp.

With my wide range of experience I took advantage by getting a job in my local primary school (Wembley Primary School). I coach all the year from Year 3 to Year 6. During the school holidays I worked for the JRF where I coached from 5 to 10 year olds and 11 to 15 year olds. Otis Roberts gave me advice and passed on his experience, which showed me a whole new side to the world of football and I couldn’t get enough of it.

Towards the end of 2008 I started my FA Level 2 Coach Course under the guidance of Mark Whiffin. Eventually I completed my Level 2 coaching and met new friends who I am looking forward to working with in the future.

I was then involved in a football charity project called the All-star Charity Football Match on May 3rd 2009. I helped in setting up the event and promoting the event in Hayes and Yeading Football club. Otis Roberts explained to me how he set up the event from the start, I took this understanding onboard and will use it to systematize other events in the future.

I had the pleasure going to Blackburn and playing in the JRF tournament, unfortunately the team (JRF) did not win. The next day I went to see Blackburn Vs West Brom.

The summer of 2009 was very educational because me and my associates that completed the Level 2 Coaching Course directed the campus. We even got Global Games to bring their products so that the kids could have a go and most importantly, have fun.

Working with the JRF, gave me the chance to fulfill my aspirations. Now with the knowledge, skills and experience I have developed I will be using it to help me achieve greater levels and to one day hopefully coach the Somalian national team.