CoWork Paide | Keskväljak 15, Paide | NOVEMBER 21 | 10:00-15:00 | ADMISSION FEE: 85€ + VAT / person
Talent Identification (Talent ID) is the process of recognizing young players with the potential to develop into elite footballers. It goes far beyond spotting the most skilled kids on the pitch — it’s about understanding growth potential, game intelligence, mindset, and long-term player development pathways.
In this workshop, we will explore how modern Talent ID principles are applied within FIFA’s Talent Development Scheme and how these practices can be introduced and adapted for Estonian clubs.
Main speaker of workshop, KAI NYYSSÖNEN, a FIFA Talent Coach with over 15 years of experience at the Finnish FA (currently working with Lithuanian FA) and a strong background in youth development, will share his insights on building effective talent environments, supporting coaches, and aligning club structures with international standards.
In the second part of workshop there will be an open panel discussion with Kai, JANI SARAJÄRVI, the head coach of Estonian U21 national team and director of Estonian national youth teams; and GERT KAMS, sports director of Paide Linnameeskond. Kai, Jani and Gert will share their views and experiences from youth level to top flights and national teams regarding spotting and nurturing talents, scouting and development issues. Q&A is welcome!
WORKSHOP IS IN ENGLISH! Warm lunch and coffee breaks are included in the admission price.
KAI NYYSSÖNEN is a Finnish football coach currently working as a FIFA Talent Coach in Lithuania. He has a long background in youth development and elite coaching, both internationally and in Finland.
Before joining FIFA’s Talent Development Scheme, he worked over 15 years for the Finnish FA as a regional coach and national team coach (U15–U19), and also led a club to promotion to the Finnish Premier League as head coach.
His work focuses on helping young players reach their potential and supporting coaches in developing modern and game-related training environments.
JANI SARAJÄRVI is a Finnish football coach currently serving as the head coach of the Estonian U21 national team and director of Estonia’s national youth teams. In his role, he is coordinating the playing and training philosophy, supporting coaches with feedback and guidance, and establishing unified quality standards across both boys’ and girls’ national teams.
A former professional player in Finland and Sweden with one senior cap for the Finnish national team, Sarajärvi has also worked in Finland’s top-tier clubs VPS and HJK, Ecuadorian club Independiente del Valle; as well as with national teams in Mali, Philippines and Gambia. He holds a PhD in sports science from the University of Lisbon.
GERT KAMS is a former Estonian international footballer and current sports director of FC Paide Linnameeskond. Following a successful playing career that included 60 appearances for the Estonian national team and multiple domestic titles, he has transitioned into leadership and player development roles.
At Paide Linnameeskond, Kams focuses on building pathways for young talents, strengthening scouting processes, and creating environments that support both athletic and personal growth. His deep understanding of player potential and long-term development makes him one of Estonia’s key figures in youth identification and mentoring.