Videesha Pahalu who was part of the 2019 Lautoka football coaching team made history with Auckland City.
Pahalu created her own legacy when she helped coach Auckland City FC in their Delivereasy Chatham Cup Round 3 match with Waiheke United last Saturday.
She has for several years coached at youth level for the club and most recently stepped up to assist Martin Brandon with Auckland City FC’s under-23 men’s team.
“It’s honestly an absolute honour. To be trusted in that environment, even in a temporary capacity, means a lot — not just to me, but hopefully to other young women who are trying to break into football.
“Auckland City FC has always been a club that supports growth, inclusivity, and development, and being part of the first team staff, even for a short time, is something I’ll carry with pride
“I’ve been with the club since I was 19 years old and started from skills centres and school teams — so to now contribute in the first-team space is surreal.
“I’m grateful for the support, and I hope it’s a small step towards normalising female and Pasifika coaches in men’s and boys’ football,” she told Auckland City FC media before the match.
Pahalu, Brandon and manager, Dinesh Chand, led a young and inexperienced Auckland City FC into their Cup tie with Waiheke United with the first team away in the United States at the FIFA Club World Cup™.
According to Auckland City, this trio have worked at youth level together in the past.
“The U23 space has been a rewarding coaching environment. It’s a unique bridge between youth and senior football — the pace, the intensity, and the mindset are all at a different level.
“But what makes it really special for me is reconnecting with players I’ve worked with in the youth grades and seeing how far they’ve come.
“Watching them step up, represent the club at a higher level, and push each other day in, day out — it’s genuinely fulfilling. I feel proud seeing their growth and knowing I’ve had a small part in their journey.”
Pahalu’s next goal is to complete her B-License and to keep evolving as a coach.
