In this exclusive interview, Coach Herald Kowlessur shares his coaching philosophy, his team’s preparations, and the excitement of competing on the global stage on home soil.

“Discipline, hard work, and teamwork – these are the qualities that have brought us this far, and these are the qualities and more will take us further.

– Herald

With the FIFA Beach Soccer World Cup around the corner, join us as we get an inside look at Seychelles’ beach soccer journey and their quest for World Cup glory on home soil.

BSmag: Congratulations Coach on being reappointed as the national team coach! How does it feel to lead your team in the upcoming World Cup, especially with the tournament set to be held in front of your home crowed?

Herald: Thank you, it’s an incredible feeling! Leading my country in a World Cup is a dream come true, and to have it happen in our own backyard is just amazing. The excitement and energy from the fans will definitely give us an extra boost. We’re all looking forward to showcasing our skills and hospitality to the world. I would also like to take this opportunity to express my gratitude to the Seychelles Football Federation for their unwavering support and trust in me and the team. Their efforts in developing the sport and providing us with the necessary resources have been amazing.

BSmag: You’ve been involved in beach soccer since its introduction in Seychelles 12 years ago. How have you seen the sport evolve, and what role have you played in its development?

Herald: Oh, it’s been an incredible journey! When beach soccer first started in Seychelles, we were just a handful of enthusiasts playing on the beach. Now, we have a thriving community, top-notch infrastructure, and a national team competing on the global stage. I’ve been fortunate to be part of this growth, transitioning from player to coach and contributing to the development of the sport. It’s amazing to see how far we’ve come!

BSmag: From player to coach, what inspired you to transition into coaching, and what lessons have you carried over from your playing days?

Herald: You know, as a player, I always had a passion for mentorship and helping others improve. When I hung up my boots, it felt natural to transition into coaching. I wanted to share my knowledge and experience with the future stars. Playing and coaching are two different beasts, but I’ve learned that discipline, hard work, and teamwork as a player are essential qualities for a coach. Plus, I’ve had the privilege of working with amazing coaches and players along the way, which has shaped my coaching philosophy.

BSmag: You’ve worked with various teams and age groups. How have these experiences shaped your approach to coaching, and what philosophies do you emphasise?

Herald: Working with different teams and age groups has taught me to be adaptable and flexible. Each team has its unique dynamics, strengths, and challenges. I’ve learned to identify and build on those strengths while addressing the challenges. My philosophy is simple: no pain, no gain. If you want to achieve something, whether in life or in sport, you have to put in the effort. I emphasise commitment, discipline, and hard work. With those qualities, we can win together.

BSmag: As a coach, what are your thoughts on the current state of beach soccer in Seychelles, and what initiatives would you like to see implemented to further grow the sport?

Herald: Beach soccer in Seychelles has come a long way, but we still have room for improvement. We need to work together to grow the sport, from grassroots to the national team. I’d love to see more investment in infrastructure across the Islands, coaching development programs, and youth initiatives. We have a talented pool of players, but we need to nurture them and provide opportunities for growth.

BSmag: Having participated in multiple international competitions and training camps, what are some of your most memorable experiences, and how have they influenced your coaching style?

Herald: Oh, there are so many! But one that stands out was our recent training camp in Dubai. We had the chance to play against top teams like Senegal and Italy, and it was an eye-opener. We learned so much from those experiences, and it changed my perspective on how I want to approach the game. I realised that we need to be more tactical, more disciplined, and more clinical in our finishing. Those lessons have definitely influenced my coaching style, and I’m excited to see how it pays off in the World Cup.

BSmag: With the World Cup being held in Seychelles, what are your expectations for the tournament, and how are you preparing your team to perform on the global stage?

Herald: We must be real, it’s not going to be easy. The World Cup is the pinnacle of beach soccer, and we would be facing the best teams in the world. But we would not just be there to make up the numbers, we would compete and compete like world class stars. We’re working hard to fine-tune our tactics, improve our physical conditioning, and build our mental toughness and we’re ready for the challenge.

“If you want to achieve something, whether in sport or in life, you have to put in the effort.

– Herald

BSmag: How do you balance the pressure of competing at the highest level with the excitement of hosting the World Cup in your home country?

Herald: You know, pressure is always there, but it’s about how you manage it. We’re focusing on our process, preparation, and our team culture.

BSmag: As an ambassador for beach soccer in Seychelles, what message do you have for young players and aspiring coaches looking to follow in your footsteps?

Herald: I would like to encourage young players to aim high. With dedication and hard work, they can achieve their dreams and represent their country on the global stage. To aspiring coaches, I would say continue to work hard and be more committed, even during the tough times. Never give up! Coaching is a journey, and it’s normal to face challenges. Always remember the why. With passion, persistence, and resilience, you can achieve greatness.

BSmag: Lastly, what does it mean to you to be part of this historic moment for Seychelles, hosting the FIFA Beach Soccer World Cup, and how will you cherish this experience?

Herald: First and foremost, I would like to thank God for blessing me to be part of this historic event. To be part of the team is a blessing, and I feel honoured to be a part of this momentous occasion. It’s a moment that I will definitely cherish, and I am grateful to my family for their unwavering support throughout my journey. I also want to extend my gratitude to the Seychelles Football Federation for bringing this event to our country. To be part of this World Cup means the world to me, It’s a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, and I am proud to be a part of it.

BSmag: Thank you Coach, for taking the time to share your inspiring journey and insights with us. We wish you and the Seychelles national team all the best at the World Cup.

Herald: Thank you, it was a pleasure sharing my story and experiences with you. I appreciate your support and wishes, and I’m grateful for this opportunity to represent my country on the global stage. Thank you again, and let’s make Seychelles proud.

For more, follow @BSmag and Herald on IG @coach_herald_