Ivona Kelić joins FIFA’s elite programme for the development of physical performance in women’s football

During the programme which has begun in October 2025, Ivona Kelić worked under the mentorship of Iva Casagrande, one of the leading experts in physical performance in women’s football. A long-standing FIFA specialist in the field, Casagrande has played a key role in the education and development of technical staff within numerous national associations, with a particular emphasis on implementing modern, evidence-based training methods. Following the completion of this phase of the programme, Ivona will continue her development under the mentorship of Luke Taylor, further enhancing her expertise through FIFA’s elite performance education pathway.

Ivona Kelić’s participation in this prestigious FIFA programme represents recognition of her professional expertise and dedication, while also highlighting the Croatian Football Federation’s ongoing commitment to the education and development of coaching and support staff in women’s football.

Ivona Kelić emphasized the value of the experience gained through the programme:

“Participating in the FIFA Elite Performance: Women’s National Team Preparation programme was an exceptional opportunity for professional development and the exchange of experiences with top experts from around the world. Throughout the two-year programme, and with the mentorship of FIFA expert Iva Casagrande, I gained valuable knowledge in modern fitness training methods, planning and monitoring training processes, and optimizing the performance of female football players at the highest level.

I am especially grateful to FIFA and the Croatian Football Federation for their trust and for providing me with the opportunity to take part in this programme. I believe the knowledge and experience I have gained will make a valuable contribution to the further development of our national team players and to the advancement of professional work within Croatian women’s football.”

Ivan Krakan, Fitness Conditioning Instructor at the Croatian Football Federation, highlighted the importance of continuous investment in coach education:

“Investing in the education of professional staff is one of the key prerequisites for the long-term development of Croatian football. Ivona Kelić’s participation in the FIFA Elite Performance programme is a significant recognition of her expertise and dedication, while also confirming the Croatian Football Federation’s ongoing commitment to the development of its professionals.

The knowledge acquired through this programme, under the mentorship of one of FIFA’s leading experts, represents a valuable asset that will be transferred into the daily work with our young national team players and further enhance the quality of fitness preparation within the women’s national team system.”

Upon completing this phase of the programme, Ivona Kelić joined a global network of professionals who contribute to the continued development of women's football through FIFA’s educational initiatives. The knowledge and experience she has gained will provide additional value in her work with young Croatian national team players. The final module of the programme will take place in November this year.