Online Reporter
Innocent Kurira, Zimpapers Sports Hub
MAURITIAN throws coaching expert Joel Severe believes Zimbabwe has the potential to match some of the region’s leading athletics nations, thanks to the National Athletics Association of Zimbabwe’s (Naaz) growing investment in coach education and technical development.
Severe concluded a World Athletics CECS Level 2 Throws Course at White City Stadium yesterday.
The intensive six-day programme, which attracted eight coaches, focused on advanced technical and psychological aspects of the throws disciplines.
“The certificate is delivered by World Athletics (WA), and those who earn it are qualified to coach anywhere in the world.
“These coaches have already completed the Level 1 course, which covers the basics and general principles of athletics. Level 2 delves into the specifics of shot put, discus, javelin, and hammer throw.
“We are using video analysis and exploring the psychological aspects of performance to enhance their coaching capacity. The goal is to empower them to raise the standard of Zimbabwean athletics so the country can compete at the top level, alongside South Africa and Botswana.
“This can only be achieved by having qualified coaches training the athletes.”
A respected figure in African athletics, Severe has years of international experience developing elite throwers and mentoring coaches across the continent.
His presence in Zimbabwe underscores Naaz’s commitment to raising technical standards and ensuring that athletes benefit from world-class coaching expertise from the grassroots level upwards.
The CECS Level 2 Throws Course forms part of Naaz’s broader strategy to strengthen the country’s coaching and officiating structures, creating a pathway from local clubs to international competition.
Naaz administrator Manuel Mpofu said: “By equipping our coaches with international qualifications and up-to-date methods, we are laying the foundation for consistent medal-winning performances in regional and global competitions.”
