The Gambia Volleyball Federation (GVBF) has launched an FIVB Level 2 Coaching Course as part of efforts to strengthen coaching standards and develop a wider pool of qualified volleyball coaches in the country.
The five-day training programme, which began on Wednesday, 7 October, brings together coaches from The Gambia and other African countries and is aimed at enhancing their technical knowledge and coaching skills.
GVBF President Bai Dodou Jallow said the initiative forms part of the federation’s long-term strategy to improve coaching standards while promoting knowledge sharing among coaches across the continent.
The course has attracted five international participants, including four coaches from Nigeria and one from Niger.
The training is being led by Mauritian coach and instructor Fayzal Bundhun, who has nearly 20 years of experience in coaching education.
Bundhun said the Level 2 programme is designed to build on coaches’ existing knowledge by introducing advanced concepts and practical approaches to modern volleyball coaching.
He said Africa had the playing talent and potential to compete at the highest level globally, but stressed that the development of competitive national teams must start with strong coaching structures at club level.
Representing the National Sports Council, Baboucarr Secka welcomed the initiative and called for continued investment in coach education as The Gambia seeks to strengthen its position in African volleyball.
Secka also highlighted the opportunities associated with the qualification, saying FIVB Level 2 certification could enable Gambian coaches to pursue opportunities with national teams, professional clubs and future coaching development programmes.
The course is expected to contribute to the federation’s efforts to strengthen the technical capacity of coaches and support the development of volleyball from grassroots to elite level.