Coaches in Ghana and Angola were the latest to benefit from the International Canoe Federation's continuous investment in education.
Level 1 coaching courses were held from November 25 to December 1 in Accra and from December 2 to December 7 in Luanda, aiming to enhance their technical skills and foster the development of canoeing in the African continent.
The courses were held in collaboration with Olympic Solidarity, the Confederation of African Canoeing (CAC) and the respective National Olympic Committees.
More than 30 coaches took part in the coaching course in Angola, led by Issac Villa Santos. A total of 22 were present for the one in Ghana, under the guidance of Alexandr Nikonorov.
Coaches were briefed on how to improve canoeing and kayaking techniques, equipment and boat technologies, strength and conditioning, and cycle planning among other areas.
The ICF strongly believes these courses will provide the coaches with all the necessary knowledge to train the next generation of athletes.
Paddle sports have made steady progress in the continent, with the Paris 2024 Olympic Games seeing 18 African athletes competing across Canoe Sprint and Canoe Slalom.
At the Paralympic Games this year, a total of three African athletes competed, with Algerian Brahim Guendouz scripting history.
Part of the ICF's development programme, he captured the continent's first-ever Paracanoe gold medal in the men’s KL3 final, as his country made its Paralympic debut in the sport.
“The coaching courses in Ghana and Angola were a great success, underlining the ICF's commitment to education and its importance,” ICF Vice President Dr. Cecilia Farias said.
“The number of participants suggests a great interest in our sport, and we are thankful for support from all our stakeholders, including the National Federations, National Olympic Committees, and of course the Olympic Solidarity programme.
“This year saw paddle sports in Africa reach great heights, especially at the Paralympic Games in Paris.
“As the world governing body for paddle sports, we care about development in every continent.
“Africa is eager to learn and use it to fulfil their potential, elevating their athletes and officials to the level that they deserve. We are here to work together.
“Our aim with these courses is to ensure that the athletes get the best training advice and environments required to succeed at the highest level.”
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