ATHLETICS NEWS - Athletics in the SWD is set to benefit greatly from an online coaching course made available through a collaborative effort by the Athletics SWD (ASWD) Coaches Committee and the University of the Free State (UFS).
In a statement released on Tuesday 13 September, the ASWD states that both organisations are committing to build out the ASA-qualified athletics coaching community in the SWD through the online UFS Short Learning Programme.
The Higher Education Quality Committee (HEQC) of the Council on Higher Education (CHE) has endorsed the very first Short Learning Programme presented by the University of the Free State (UFS).
It is developed and presented by top national coaches with on-the-field success, says Emmarie Prinsloo, lecturer in exercise and sport sciences at UFS.
According to Shireen Noble, president of ASWD, this innovative way of learning from the best will allow ASWD to build up a strong contingent of ASA-qualified athletics coaches in the province.
The online approach will also make it easier for schools and clubs in the SWD to enter a number of coaches to attend the course without the disruption of being away from the school for a prolonged period.
Christo Vrey, ASWD Coaches Committee chairman, said the course structure allows a person to apply what he/she learns straight back onto the athletics track and get feedback from the course facilitators.
He told George Herald on Tuesday that over the years, about 200 coaches have qualified in the region. People move around and there is a constant demand for coaches to qualify.
He said over the years the region produced athletes that made their mark, such as Elroy Gelant, Jo-Anne van Dyk, Mirè Reinstorf and Carla du Plessis.
According to Vrey, the fact that the courses are online will definitely benefit athletics in SWD. Participants will save on petrol and accommodation expenses.
Available courses include:
Long jump, sprints, triple jump, high jump, pole vault, hurdles, javelin throw, middle distances and steeple chase, discus throw, hammer throw, shot put, relays and race walking.
For more details on the programme, contact Emmarie Prinsloo on 051 401 2891 or send an email to KovsieSportsSLP@ufs.ac.za. You can also read more about it at www.ufs.ac.za/kovsiesport/kovsiesport/short-learning-programme.
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