The Dhivehi Youth League (DYL) has become the largest and most organized platform for young football players in the Maldives. Leading this initiative is Technical Director Saanthi Coach, a seasoned professional with extensive experience in Maldivian football and international exposure. With a deep commitment to youth development, Saanthi brings valuable insights and leadership to the league, aiming to foster the next generation of football talent.

About Coach Saanthi

Saanthi’s journey in football has spanned various roles, from Technical Director of the Football Association of Maldives (FAM) to Head Coach positions at multiple clubs, including Club Eydhafushi, United Victory, and Eagles. His international experience includes participating in a FIFA workshop for Technical Directors in Beirut and attending the FIFA Football Conference in London, equipping him with advanced insights and methodologies to apply in his work.

His professional background has made him well-suited for his current role at DYL, where he strives to bring the best practices in youth development to Maldivian football. With each position he has held, Saanthi has reinforced his commitment to elevating young players’ skills, ensuring that they are prepared for competitive stages.

Vision and Goals

When asked what inspired him to take on the role of Technical Director at DYL, Saanthi highlighted the league’s scale and purpose: "DYL is the biggest platform for youth players to compete and showcase their talents." His main goal is to help identify potential players for the national youth teams, creating a pipeline of talent that can strengthen Maldivian football for years to come. "I expect this DYL will bring an immense step forward in youth development," he shared, expressing his excitement about the league’s potential impact.

Supporting Young Talent

DYL is designed to help young players grow, providing consistent opportunities to play and improve. "We want to increase their playing time throughout the year," Saanthi explained. Leagues like DYL are essential because they offer "a player pathway for a great forward step," giving youth the chance to develop technically, tactically, physically, and mentally. This holistic approach equips players with the skills and resilience they need to excel at higher levels of the game.

Community and Family

A significant factor in the success of DYL is the support from families and the community. Saanthi emphasized the importance of a positive atmosphere: "Families can support by attending matches and creating a positive environment for players' development." He also noted that financial and volunteer support from the community contributes to the league's success. By being present and supportive, families and communities can have a lasting impact on the players’ journey, fostering an environment that celebrates growth and achievement.

Looking Ahead

For the future, Saanthi hopes to see DYL become an annual fixture, establishing itself as a consistent part of youth development in Maldivian football. He sees it as "an excellent showcase for youngsters to demonstrate their skills and a valuable opportunity for coaches to advance their careers." This continuity would ensure that young players have regular access to high-quality competition and development opportunities, benefiting both the athletes and the coaching community.

A Message to Players and Parents

Saanthi offered words of encouragement for those involved in DYL. To young players, he advises: "Give your best, respect, and obey fair play rules throughout the league." For parents, his message is simple but impactful: "Let them play and enjoy. Don’t interfere or coach your kids. Avoid putting unnecessary pressure on them, and always encourage and motivate."

The Dhivehi Youth League, under the guidance of experienced leaders like Saanthi Coach, is more than just a competition; it’s a pathway for growth, opportunity, and community. With support from families and the broader community, DYL aims to build a brighter future for Maldivian football, one young player at a time.