Online Reporter
Innocent Kurira, Zimpapers Sports Hub
THE National Athletics Association of Zimbabwe (Naaz) is rolling out a new wave of coaching courses this August, aiming to modernise how the country develops its athletes. At the heart of this effort is a pivot to scientific training methods that prioritise biomechanics, psychology, and injury prevention.
According to Naaz director of coaching, Lisimati Phakamile, the courses are designed to give local coaches the tools to stay relevant in an increasingly data-driven sports world.
“This year’s coaching curriculum is ground-breaking. We are moving away from outdated training routines and bringing in evidence-based methods that focus on biomechanics, athlete psychology and injury prevention. Our coaches must understand that modern sport is as much a science as it is an art.”
The first course takes place August 8–10 at Hillcrest College in Mutare under the TOECS (Teachers Orientation to Athletics Coaching School) programme.
Bulawayo hosts the next round with a double session at White City Stadium. TOECS runs there from August 18–20, overlapping with the CECS Level 1 (Coaches Education and Certification System) course, which takes place from August 19–21.
“We want to create a vibrant learning environment where teachers and aspiring high performance coaches can interact and learn from each other. This cross pollination of ideas can only strengthen the coaching culture in Zimbabwe.”
The final TOECS session for the month is set for August 25–27 in Kwekwe.
Naaz expects strong participation at all venues, fuelled by growing interest in sports science and a broader push to see coaching as a viable professional path for the next generation.
Bongani Moyo