By Rebecca Gichana
Nairobi, Kenya: The Olympic solidarity advanced coaching course saw 15 coaches out of 25, who took part, qualify as International Handball Federation lecturers.
The course was held at the Nyayo National Stadium handball gymnasium from May 3-12.
Four coaches out of the 15 who qualified, will attend another one month global lecturer’s course in South Africa in September.
According to the course facilitator Zoltan Marczinka from Hungary, the level of handball in the country is growing. He recommended that the federation get more support if the discipline is to attain better performances in future.
“I am impressed with the level at which the sport is growing in Kenya. Coaching is also high and the teams that we used for practical were impressive in applying what they were taught in the national playoffs.
“This is a good show in moving the sport to other countries in the continent. I have witnessed the playoffs and I can say that the level of officiating and play is high compared to other East Africa countries,” said Marczinka.
“The federation should secure the support from International Handball Federation especially in terms of equipment and teaching materials, establish better support from the Government and National Olympic Committee,” he added.
“They also need and working with national teams more often in competitive tournaments. Improving playing conditions and courts is another thing that needs to be worked on. Talented players should be sent abroad to enhance their skills.”
Charles Omondi, the course director said such kind of courses are necessary if the sport is to improve.
“We have seen much improvement not only from coaches but also from players. We had two coaches from Uganda and Tanzania with an aim of improving the sport in the region,” said Omondi.
