Tuvalu officially presented 57-year-old Robert Maaskant as national team coach in Roosendaal on Wednesday. Maaskant said he is not being paid for the role, while the project's social message also played a part in his decision.
Presentation in Roosendaal
Tuvalu completed Maaskant's official presentation in Roosendaal on Wednesday, confirming him as national team coach.
Maaskant on pay
Maaskant said: "I'm not getting a penny, so that's not really the case this time."
Only Maaskant's travel and expenses are covered.
How the move began
Maaskant said Michiel van der Werf, the Tuvalu Islands Football Association's technical director from Brabant, approached him this summer.
Maaskant said: "I knew Foppe's story, of course, and I like an adventure. I think seeing the world through football is a worthwhile aim."
Social message and staff
Rising sea levels caused by climate change threaten Tuvalu, and the project's social message also played a part in Maaskant's decision.
Maaskant said: "That story goes beyond sport, of course. But football can help draw attention to this problem. I'm certainly no climate revolutionary, but I think it's wonderful if we can help the world a little through football. That's another reason why I think this is a fantastic project."
Dutchman Thijs Matla and Tuvaluan assistants Nabil Alefaio and Pasene Siale are also part of the coaching staff.
