International soccer player and Brazillian-born Cristiano dos Santos Rodrigues put local mums and dads through their paces at last weekend's skills acquisition training at the Leisure Centre.

The course conducted over two days, accredited eight brand new soccer coaches.

The accreditation of the new coaches takes Roxby Downs junior soccer to a new level of expertise and support for junior players.

Tony D'Arrigo has had been tasked with the job of coaching and arranging teams for the past few years is delighted that the mums and dads stepped in what he hopes will encourage other parents to seek accreditation.

"I am so proud that the parents have stepped up, not just for their own children but for the good of other players in our fledgling competition," he said.

"They are credit to themselves and the game.

"The new coaches will take a lot of pressure off me but not only that, their qualification means we ensure the kids are provided with the appropriate training and support."

Mr D'Arrigo said the Football Federation of South Australia were unsung heroes in regard to Roxby Downs Junior Soccer transformation from a few kids kicking a ball around on a Sunday morning to over 80 registered players.

"We certainly wouldn't be here today without the support of the FFSA," he said.

"In partnership with FFSA and with the help of Game Development Manager John Mundy, local soccer has gone from strength to strength.

"Without the support of the federation and the talent of Cristiano dos Santos we wouldn't have seven accredited coaches.

"Their support has been amazing."

Mr D'Arrigo said he was impressed by the way the kids from junior soccer worked hard over the two day course providing the talent for the course.

"The kids did a fantastic job," he said.

"Without them the course would not have been possible.

"For 12, 13 and 14-year olds they really kept up with the program.

"I'm impressed."

With the country championships on the horizon Roxby junior under 12s and 16s would have the honour of training with Cristiano prior to leaving for the Riverland.

Article by Jack McGuire, Roxby Downs Sun Newspaper