TTFA Launches Level 4 Elite Player Care certificate
TTFA Launches Level 4 Elite Player Care and Wellbeing Certificate in Partnership with Wellbeing Science Institute of Australia
The Trinidad and Tobago Football Association through its Safeguarding, Player Care and Wellbeing Department, officially launched the Level 4 Elite Player Care and Wellbeing Certificate programme in collaboration with the Wellbeing Science Institute (WSI) of Australia.
The launch last Thursday at the TTFA Home of Football was led by Steve Johnson, Chief Executive Officer of WSI, who travelled from Australia to introduce the programme and engage directly with participants, marking another important step in the TTFA’s ongoing commitment to player welfare and holistic athlete development.
The twelve-week certification programme is designed to equip participants with the tools and understanding required to support players beyond the traditional boundaries of the game. Each week, candidates will complete one module guided by WSI experts, covering key areas such as wellbeing planning, career transitions, physical and psychological wellbeing, and holistic player support.
Speaking at the launch, Johnson emphasized that modern football must move beyond outdated approaches that focus solely on performance.
“Traditionally, the thinking has been that if we train harder and push more, results will come. But we know that’s not the full picture. When we support players more holistically, they don’t just perform better—they grow as people, and that ultimately benefits both the player and the team.”
Johnson explained that while safeguarding remains critical in protecting players and ensuring ethical standards, player care and wellbeing is about proactively building positive environments where athletes can thrive.
“Safeguarding is about preventing harm. Player care and wellbeing is about promoting what’s good—for the person and for the player.”
The programme introduces a wide-ranging and practical approach to athlete support, addressing areas often overlooked in traditional systems. These include identity development beyond football, mental health promotion, relationships, financial literacy, career planning, and community engagement.
“We want players to understand that being a footballer is only one part of who they are. When they see themselves more broadly, they handle pressure better, transition better, and ultimately live better lives throughout their careers.”
Participants who complete the twelve-week course will advance to a one-year practicum programme, where they will apply their knowledge in real-world settings under the supervision of Dr. Cheryl Ann Boodram, ensuring that learning translates into meaningful impact within clubs and organisations.
Johnson also highlighted the importance of prevention and customization in athlete care.
“It’s not just about stopping things from going wrong. It’s about helping people and organisations flourish. Every player is different, so part of the work is understanding what matters to them and tailoring support in a way that aligns with their identity and values.”
The initiative is expected to strengthen the local football ecosystem by building capacity among those responsible for athlete welfare, while also positioning Trinidad and Tobago as a leader in the region in this critical area.
There are already ambitions for wider regional impact.
“Our hope is to see this programme grow across the Caribbean. We’ve seen it develop in Australia and the UK, even working with the Premier League, and we believe there’s a real opportunity here to spread this approach across the region,” Johnson added.
The strong turnout and engagement at the launch signalled clear interest from stakeholders across the football community.
“People are here because the work has meaning to them—not because they have to be. And when you bring together a group like that, you create the conditions for real progress.”
Also Speaking at the launch, TTFA Safeguarding Player Care and Wellbeing Manager Gary St Rose emphasized that the initiative forms part of the Association’s wider strategy to place player welfare at the centre of athlete development.
The TTFA Safeguarding, Player Care and Wellbeing Department continues to lead in fostering safe, supportive, and high-performing environments, ensuring that players—and those who support them—are equipped with internationally aligned knowledge and best practices.
This partnership with the Wellbeing Science Institute represents a significant investment in the future of Trinidad and Tobago football, placing the wellbeing of its athletes firmly at the centre of development.
