BY TONY IROGA
Solomon Islands National Institute of Sport (SINIS) is hosting the Federation International de Basketball (FIBA), World Association of Basketball Coaches (WABC) Level 1 Coaching Course in Honiara.
This brings together basketball coaches from across the region, including participants from Solomon Islands, Fiji, Papua New Guinea and Vanuatu.
The six-day course aims to enhance coaching standards by equipping participants with both theoretical knowledge and practical skills, while also strengthening collaboration among coaches in the Pacific.
According to lead facilitator, Caleb Harrison the programme is designed to improve the quality of coaching at an international level.
“It is really about improving the quality of coaching internationally,” he said.
He added that they are running a six-day high-level course for coaches who already have at least five years of experience.
“This providing both classroom learning opportunities and on-court activities, as well as opportunities to connect and engage with other coaches across the region,” he said.
He explained that the course is competency-based, with a strong focus on practical application.
There is a significant practical component, with a large amount of on-court facilitation.
“Coaches are developing both their technical and interpersonal coaching skills, while also being given the opportunity to reflect on their learning each day and apply it within their own coaching context,” he said.
He noted that participants are expected to take the knowledge gained from the course back to their respective communities.
Coaches will leave this course with new knowledge that they can apply in their own environments.
“Not only will they use it within their own teams, but they can also share that knowledge with the wider coaching community in the region, helping to develop more coaches,” he said.
Solomon Islands Basketball for Good coach Winnie Laora also shared that her motivation to join the course was driven by her passion for the sport and desire to improve as a coach.
“My passion for basketball, desire to learn and grow as a coach motivated me to take part.
“I am hoping to gain a better understanding of basic basketball skills and how to teach them effectively,” she said.
She highlighted that the sessions on fundamentals and teaching methods have had a strong impact on her learning.
“One session that really stood out to me was the fundamentals and teaching methods session, which emphasizes creating a fun and engaging learning environment, especially for young and developing players,” she said.
She added that the knowledge gained will be directly applied in her coaching work within the community.
“I plan to apply the knowledge and skills from this course directly in my coaching, especially when working with youth and beginner players.
“This training will help me grow not only as a coach by improving my skills and knowledge, but also as a leader by strengthening my confidence, communication skills, and ability to guide and inspire others,” she said.
The course will conclude with practical assessments, where participants will be evaluated on their ability to deliver coaching sessions.
“On the final day, each coach will undertake a practical assessment, where they will deliver sessions on both individual and team skills,” she said.
Lead facilitator, Caleb Harrison said the practical session forms a major part of the assessment.
“We want to ensure they have the competency to coach effectively in their own environments,” he said.
He also expressed his appreciation to those who made the program possible.
“I would like to thank FIBA for the opportunity, and also the Solomon Islands Basketball Federation for putting this program together,” he said.
A lot of work goes into organising a course like this, and I have really enjoyed being here.
He added that the people of Solomon Islands are very welcoming and warm-hearted, and he looks forward to continuing this work in the future.
“The course is expected to further strengthen basketball development in Solomon Islands and across the Pacific region through improved coaching standards and knowledge sharing,” he said.
Photo: Supplied
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