Baku:Sabah Coca-Cola, in collaboration with Universiti Malaysia Sabah (UMS), has introduced a grassroots football development initiative called "Coca-Cola Bina Juara" (Coca-Cola Building Champions). The programme is designed to provide young football players in Sabah with enhanced access to performance technology and sports science.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Claudia Chan, Coca-Cola ASEAN and South Pacific Public Policy senior director, stated that the programme aims to help young athletes gain a better understanding of their performance using professional-level technology and data analysis.
The initiative focuses on three key evaluations Global Positioning System (GPS) performance tracking vests, artificial intelligence (AI) game analysis, and smart ball performance testing. These technologies are intended to provide players with accurate data regarding their physical fitness, movement, and tactical understanding, which in turn can help improve their performance both on and off the field.
The programme also seeks to offer modern sports science facilities to youths, especially those from less privileged backgrounds, and to foster confidence, discipline, and aspirations among the new generation of Sabah's football talent. Community and school coaches will also benefit from exposure to data and analysis equipment, enabling them to plan more effective training sessions.
Dr. Jorrye Jakiwa, a lecturer at UMS Faculty of Education and Sports Studies, highlighted the potential of young players in Sabah, despite their limited access to professional sports facilities. The programme has brought together eight youth teams, with players aged 16 to 21, from various schools, academies, and community clubs across the state. Participants and coaches are introduced to methods that help them make data-driven decisions to enhance playing styles.
Participants will have the opportunity to learn from former Sabah FC players Harith Naem and Muhammad Rozaimi Abdul Rahman, as well as former state coach Jelius Ating. A follow-up evaluation is scheduled for next year to assist players and coaches in assessing their progress continuously.
Datuk Seri Masidi Manjun, Sabah Deputy Chief Minister II, emphasized the importance of incorporating sports science and modern technology to produce international-level footballers. He expressed hope that UMS and Coca-Cola would sustain the initiative to strengthen Sabah's football development programmes systematically.