By Aderonke Ojo
19 coaches out of 25 have earned the Fédération Internationale de Volleyball (FIVB) certification at the just concluded Olympic Solidarity Beach Volleyball Coaching Course in Abuja.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the FIVB is responsible for setting rules, organising international competitions like the Olympic Games and World Championships, and promoting volleyball globally.
NAN reports that the Olympic Solidarity Beach Volleyball Coaching Course was jointly organised by the Nigeria Volleyball Federation (NVBF), the Nigeria Olympic Committee (NOC), and the International Volleyball Federation (FIVB).
The events came to a colourful close on Saturday in Abuja, marking the end of a five-day intensive technical instruction, learning, and collaboration which started on Nov. 4 and ended at the Moshood Abiola National Stadium, in Abuja.
The course brought together 25 participants from across the country, a blend of experienced and emerging coaches eager to strengthen their knowledge of modern beach volleyball techniques and coaching methodologies.
The highlight of the closing ceremony was the presentation of certificates, with 19 coaches earning the prestigious FIVB certification while all 25 participants received recognition from the NBVF for their successful completion of the programme.
President of the Nigeria Volleyball Federation, Musa Nimrod, commended the participants for their commitment and discipline throughout the course but reminded them that the true value of the programme lies in practical application.
“To our coaches, I urge you to translate your knowledge into productivity. It’s not just about the certificate; it’s about the impact you make.
“Don’t wait for government support; instead, take the initiative to develop volleyball in your communities. Your productivity is what matters.
“We expect every participant to go back home, train new players, and develop our young talents. That is the real achievement,” he said.
He challenged the newly trained coaches to take responsibility for the growth of the sport at the grassroots and contribute to Nigeria’s quest for global competitiveness.
“The road to Los Angeles begins here. Beach Volleyball remains one of our strongest disciplines, and with your renewed capacity, we can build a system that will produce world-class athletes,” he said.
He said that this is just the beginning. “We have planted a seed of excellence that must continue to grow.
“These coaches are our ambassadors and through their work, Nigeria Beach Volleyball will continue to rise,” he said.
Representing the Nigeria Olympic Committee (NOC) President, Rukayat Olaniyan, Administrative and Project Personnel, expressed delight at the success of the programme and appreciated the NVBF for its consistent efforts in aligning with Olympic Solidarity’s development objectives.
“This course reflects our shared vision with the International Olympic Committee (IOC) to empower coaches, strengthen national systems, and inspire excellence.
“Our instructor has done an excellent job, and we are proud of the coaches who have shown great determination and focus,” she said.
Course instructor Javier Bosma, an FIVB International Expert and Olympic silver medalist, expressed deep satisfaction with the participants’ enthusiasm and progress throughout the training.
“From the first day, we focused on building connection and understanding among the coaches.
“The participants worked hard, asked intelligent questions, and showed great passion for learning. I’m not just happy, am proud of them,” he said.
Bosma urged the new coaches to immediately apply their knowledge within their communities, noting that sustained practice and mentorship are the keys to improvement.
“Now you have all this information, it’s yours, go and use it. If you keep working and put your best into it, there’s only one direction you can go and that’s up,” he said.
One of the participants, Laju Isabella, expressed gratitude for the rare opportunity.
“I have learnt so much that I never knew before. This course has opened my eyes to better ways of teaching and mentoring younger players.
“I’m going back home to put everything into practice and help grow the game,” she said. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)
Edited by Joseph Edeh
