FC Avenir begins a new challenge in Laos.

One of the most prominent names in the history of independent clubs in South Korea, FC Avenir started with a pure independent system selecting players who are not affiliated with professional teams. Over the past five years, it has discovered and nurtured many promising players, establishing itself as an alternative model for Korean football. Now, this challenge crosses borders into the Laos First Division League. The club, newly established as Champasak Avenir FC, is seeking a coach through an open audition process. I met with technical director Choi Seong-hwan to hear about the philosophy and vision behind this project.

Q. What challenges have you faced while operating the independent club FC Avenir?

Over the past five years, I have directly nurtured many children while operating FC Avenir. I created a nurturing system, provided opportunities, and repeated the process of sending them out into the world. However, at some point, I had the following concern: 'Is there a stage where these children can play stably?' I realized that there are limitations to nurturing alone. Ultimately, I concluded that a platform was necessary for the children to play, experience, and grow directly, leading to the decision to transition to a professional club.

Q. Why did you choose Laos as the destination for entering the professional league?

Laos was the perfect market for a challenge. There is great potential for growth, and opportunities to redesign the system. Above all, it aligned well with our direction of talent discovery and fan culture experimentation across Asia. While FC Avenir was an experimental model domestically, Champasak Avenir is its Asian version.

Q. I heard that Champasak Avenir will select a new coach through a groundbreaking 'open audition' method?

That's correct. I wanted to give opportunities to capable and motivated leaders. I believe that a structure where individuals apply and are evaluated themselves is more transparent and fair than a closed recommendation system. This open system truly reflects our club's philosophy.

Q. What criteria do you consider most important when selecting a coach?

First, can they share a long-term philosophy? Second, communication skills. Third, flexibility in content collaboration. While short-term results are important, what is needed most is someone who can 'co-create' the club with the team.

Q. The fan participation system is impressive. What does this mean for the coach?

Our club aspires to a culture where the fans are the owners. Fans vote to select the best 11, and based on that, they play in the matches. From the coach's perspective, they must balance strategy with fan opinions. Ultimately, this is a matter of communication.

Q. You mentioned that internal communication is also important?

That's right. Trust with players, empathy with coaching staff, collaboration with management, and rapport with local staff are essential; without them, no matter how excellent the strategy, it won't work. I believe that the more diverse the environment, the more crucial internal communication becomes. Relationships built on sincerity and respect sustain the team.

Q. I heard there are plans to actively utilize Asian players.

Currently, the Laos league allows for a maximum of 10 Asian nationality players, and up to 7 can be included in the best 11 per match. Considering substitutes, virtually everyone can participate. We plan to scout not only Korean players but also promising players from ASEAN countries such as Vietnam, Indonesia, and Thailand. Champasak Avenir will be based in the Laos league, yet the stage is all of Asia.

Q. Fan participation, sharing philosophy, nurturing... It seems all of this will ultimately connect to results?

Yes, we do not take results lightly. For players to seize opportunities to move to larger leagues, successful outcomes are essential. Our goal is not merely to stay in the Laos league but to look towards the AFC Challengers League (ACL3) and even the AFC Champions League 2 (ACL2). We also dream of participating in the Southeast Asian version of the Champions League, the AFF Shopee Cup. Achieving a balance between ideals and reality, philosophy and results, is what will create a truly sustainable model.

Q. What would you like to say to those applying for this coach selection?

Champasak Avenir is not just an ordinary football club. It is a new platform for Asia, a chance for independent football, and a laboratory experimenting with fans. If you want to be part of this journey and grow with the club, I encourage you to take on the challenge without hesitation.

The open audition for the coach of Champasak Avenir will have document submissions accepted until May 14, 2025, with interviews scheduled for May 16. Detailed application methods can be found on Champasak Avenir's official Instagram account (@fcavenir).

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