Online Reporter
Innocent Kurira [email protected]
AS the National Athletics Association of Zimbabwe (NAAZ) intensifies efforts to build a strong technical base for the sport, Bulawayo will host Level One and Two officiating courses later this month in a move aimed at equipping officials with the skills needed to uphold high competition standards.
The two-day courses, scheduled for June 27 and 28 at White City Stadium, form part of NAAZ’s continued drive to strengthen technical capacity and improve the quality of officiating across the country.
The training sessions will run from 8am to 4pm and are expected to attract aspiring and existing officials eager to sharpen their knowledge of athletics rules, competition management and event administration.
Participants will pay a fee of US$50 each to enrol for the programme, which organisers believe will play a crucial role in producing competent officials capable of handling competitions at various levels.
BAB chairman Watson Madanyika said the courses underline the importance of continuous education in athletics and align with NAAZ’s vision of building a strong foundation for the sport.
“These courses are critical to the growth of athletics because quality officiating goes hand in hand with athlete development. NAAZ has prioritised education and capacity building, and as Bulawayo Athletics Board, we are proud to play our part by hosting these programmes,” said Madanyika.
“We encourage officials to take advantage of this opportunity. The more knowledgeable our officials are, the better our competitions will be, and ultimately that benefits the athletes and the sport as a whole.”
The courses come at a time when athletics authorities are placing increased emphasis on developing human capital, recognising that well-trained officials are essential in ensuring competitions are conducted professionally and in accordance with international standards.
