DHS Director of Soccer, Lendl Thavarayan, successfully obtained his UEFA Coaching Licence
Image: DHS
Achieving a UEFA B Licence has marked a significant and emotional milestone for a Durban-based school coach, who says the qualification has strengthened his coaching philosophy while reinforcing the importance of player-centred development.
Lendl Thavarayan, Director of Soccer at Durban High School (DHS) described the course as transformative, with a strong emphasis on placing players at the centre of every decision.
"The programme highlighted the importance of understanding individual needs within a team structure, while also focusing on planning training sessions with clear outcomes and designing realistic, match-related practices," Thavarayan said.
Rather than changing his philosophy, he said the course enhanced it.
"I've always believed in developing players, but the programme pushed me to be more intentional and detailed,” he explained.
He added that it encouraged a more player-led approach, promoting decision-making and helping players understand the reasoning behind their actions.
The achievement carries personal significance for Thavarayan who dedicated the milestone to his late father, who had always encouraged him to pursue the qualification.
He described the moment as both proud and sentimental, noting that the internationally respected licence validates years of hard work while reminding him there is still more to learn.
The decision to pursue the qualification came from a desire to grow professionally and step outside his comfort zone. Working in a school environment, he said he felt a responsibility to provide the highest standard of coaching to his players, adding that the licence will help him do so more effectively.
Balancing coaching responsibilities, business commitments and studying proved challenging. Thavarayan said one of the toughest aspects was being assessed in real coaching environments, where he had to deliver sessions under pressure while demonstrating strong communication, attention to detail, and adaptability.
Professionally, the qualification is expected to broaden his prospects. The UEFA B Licence is recognised worldwide and can open pathways into advanced coaching environments, including academies, elite school programmes, and potentially professional football structures, both locally and abroad.
He credited his family, colleagues and players for their support throughout the journey. His players, in particular, played a key role in his development, as he applied new techniques and ideas during training sessions.
Reflecting on the experience, he encouraged aspiring coaches to embrace the challenge.
"The course is not just about passing assessments, but about continuous learning, reflection and improvement," Thavarayan said.
One of his proudest moments came when he successfully delivered a session that brought together everything he had learned, with players fully engaged and able to apply concepts in a match scenario.
He also highlighted the value of networking, having built connections with fellow coaches now working at professional clubs.
Now serving as DHS's Director of Football, he plans to apply his new knowledge consistently while continuing to develop young players.
Looking ahead, Thavarayan aims to progress further along the UEFA coaching pathway and take on greater challenges in the sport.
IOL