Anse Reunion, the island club on La Digue, once tasted the sweet success of a trophy under the guidance of coach Juel Ah-Kong. We sat down with the veteran tactician to reminisce about that triumphant period and get his thoughts on whether Anse Reunion’s current squad has what it takes to end their trophy drought since his departure. Nowadays, Ah-Kong is making an impact as part of the coaching staff at Rovers FC on the main island of Mahe, working alongside Michel Renaud to develop the next generation of Seychelles football talent.
Seysoccer: How do you feel knowing that you are the last head coach who won a trophy for Anse Reunion 10+ years ago?
Juel Ah – Kong: The last trophy for Anse Reunion was in 2012. I’m very proud that I was part of that success!
Seysoccer: What was the key to your team’s success that season?
Juel Ah – Kong: The key to our success was planning. We had everything planned on time. The discipline within the team was also perfect. It was an amazing team spirit.
Seysoccer: How did the La Digue community react to your team’s cup victory?
Juel Ah – Kong: It was amazing! We made history by bringing a trophy to our island. I couldn’t believe it – the atmosphere was all positive, and the people were dancing around all night long.
Seysoccer: Looking back, what was the most important detail that season which made you to be the winning team?
Juel Ah – Kong: G. Payet had an important role as he was part of the management team. We followed a training plan, we had a disciplined group of players, and the players were getting their allowances on time… Basically, everything was on point!
Seysoccer: How did you celebrate the cup triumph with your team?
Juel Ah – Kong: We all celebrated with all the supporters and sponsors of Anse Reunion FC. It was amazing!
Seysoccer: You’re now with Rovers FC and Norvil Gaspard has been the captain for some time. Can you share any memories of Norvil from your days at Anse Reunion?
Juel Ah – Kong: Norvil Gaspard is a good player with the ability, speed, and dribbling skills to take on opponents one-on-one and win penalties. He was playing on the left wing or right wing and was clever, with a good football mind, playing in 3 different positions and keeping the ball close. This was one of my tactics. We train every Tuesday and Thursday from 3 PM to 5:30 PM in the sun, focusing on endurance, speed, and power.
Seysoccer: What advice would you give to the current Anse Reunion FC coach?
Juel Ah – Kong: My advice is to keep working hard and don’t sell yourself for nothing.
Seysoccer: Anse Reunion seems like one of the strongest teams in Premier League for the next season at the moment, how far do you think they can go this season?
Juel Ah – Kong: Hopefully, they can do better than last year, and I believe they will be able to do it!
