By Ntokozo Magongo
MBABANE – The Athletics Eswatini is walking tall after 45 coaches completed the Kids Athletics Program while 46 graduated under the Development of Nation Sports System (DNSS) project.
The 46 graduated on Sunday at Mhlume Country Club while the 45 went for the three days Kids Athletic Program at the same venue. Athletics Eswatini (AE) President Zakhele Dlamini said this program will assist in the development of the sport in the country.
The DNSS projects commenced at the beginning of June and he said it has been a journey of growth, learning and collaboration.
He said they were privileged to work under the expert guidance of Tendai Tagara an accomplished member of the World Athletics Development Commission and the President of Athletics Zimbabwe. Tagara who has a wealth of experience in athlete development and coaching was in the country for the graduation and the Kids Athletics Program.
“We engaged over 60 school principals from both primary and secondary levels nationwide. Their buy-in was crucial as we sought to establish school based athletics clubs. These principals were also trained in safe-guarding practices and club administration, ensuring that our schools are equipped to foster safe and well organized sports environments.
“The primary focus of the DNSS project was capacity development in coaching, an area in which Eswatini has historically faced challenges due to shortage of active, qualified coaches. To address this gap, over 100 teachers were enrolled in training programs conducted online,” he said.
Dlamini then congratulated the graduates and said they were looking forward at witnessing a positive impact they will have in athletics in the country. He said the programs came at the right time when athletics is in dire need of qualified coaches.
“Coaching is key and a very significant pillar in the growth of any sport. AE understands the sacrifice and dedication that comes with being a coach and we do not take this for granted. I would like to emphasize that this course is an investment that the Olympic Solidarity is making on you and therefore the federation expect a return on this investment,’ he concluded.
