The idyllic setting of Lake Ahémé in Possotomé hosted a major event for the development of sports structures in West Africa: the Level 1 World Rowing Classic Coaching Training Course. Organized as part of the Development of Nations Sports Structure (DNSS), this event brought together 12 motivated participants eager to improve their coaching skills.
This intensive course was led by Fayçal Soula, a World Rowing expert, whose expertise and experience greatly contributed to the quality of the training course. Financed by Olympic Solidarity and managed by the Benin National Olympic and Sports Committee (CNOSB) and the Benin Rowing Federation, this event received strong institutional support.
The dynamic presence and direct involvement of the President, Secretary General, and Treasurer of the CNOSB and the President of the Benin Rowing Federation added considerable value to this activity. Their commitment was perceived as a testament to the importance given to the development of sports structures in Benin.
The week’s program was rich in content, covering various aspects of sports coaching. The theoretical and practical modules enabled participants to acquire technical and pedagogical skills. The practical sessions, notably on Lake Ahémé (Akodéa beach), provided a unique opportunity to immediately apply the theoretical knowledge.
The trainees expressed their satisfaction with the quality of the training and the organization of the event. “This course exceeded my expectations. The skills acquired here will be extremely useful in my coaching career,” said one participant. Another added, “The environment, the supervision, and the content were perfect. I learned a lot and am eager to put these new skills into practice.”
This training course marks only the beginning of a broader process aimed at strengthening local capacities in managing and developing sports structures. The skills acquired by the participants will have a lasting impact on the quality of sports coaching in Benin.
This event is a prelude to a second visit scheduled for early September 2024, intended to complete the DNSS program. This continuity demonstrates the organizers’ commitment to ensuring sustained and long-term development of sports structures.
In conclusion, the Level 1 WR Coaching Course held in Possotomé from May 12 to 18, 2024, was a great success. The commitment of local sports authorities, the Ministry of Sport, CNOSB, FABén, and the beauty of the setting all contributed to making this event a success. The DNSS program continues to demonstrate its effectiveness, promising a bright future for sports in Benin and beyond.
