Online Reporter
Innocent Kurira
Zimpapers Sports Hub
ZIMBABWE is set to become the veritable heartbeat of African athletics education this August, as the National Athletics Association of Zimbabwe (Naaz) prepares to launch four consecutive, world-class training and certification courses right here in Bulawayo.
In a bold and ambitious move towards truly professionalising the sport, White City Stadium will serve as the host for a pivotal series of World Athletics-accredited programmes. These initiatives are specifically designed to significantly upskill local teachers, coaches, and technical officials, unequivocally placing Zimbabwe firmly on the international athletics map.
First on the agenda is the World Athletics Level 1 Technical Officials Education and Certification System (TOECS), scheduled to run from 18–20 August. This intensive course, expertly tailored for teachers and aspiring officials, promises globally recognised certification and will be delivered by seasoned, World Athletics appointed experts. The course fee is US$200, with a US$50 deposit granting immediate access to the essential online modules. Aspiring participants should note that only the first 20 paid applicants will be accepted, ensuring a focused and effective learning environment.
Immediately following, from 21–23 August, Naaz will proudly host the CECS Level 1 Coaching Course. This programme is meticulously designed for school and youth coaches — widely recognised as the key architects of grassroots talent development. With just 30 places available, this vital course follows the same straightforward payment structure, costing a total of US$300.
Running concurrently from 21–26 August, the CECS Level 2 Middle and Long Distance Course will cater exclusively to 15 selected participants. This high-performance programme offers in-depth, advanced instruction in endurance disciplines, priced at US$350. It is tailored for coaches who are genuinely ready to significantly elevate their expertise in this demanding area of athletics.
Rounding off this impactful schedule is the CECS Level 2 Throws Course, taking place from 25–30 August. Specifically designed for coaches specialising in disciplines such as shot put, discus, javelin, and hammer throw, this elite-level course will also admit a select group of just 15 individuals, ensuring dedicated, and high-quality instruction.
Crucially, all courses include comprehensive certification, daily lunch, and refreshments, providing a supportive and conducive environment for all participants. This August promises to be a transformative month for athletics in Zimbabwe, setting a strong precedent for future development across the continent.
“These courses are part of our broader strategy to professionalise and grow athletics from grassroots to elite levels. We urge interested individuals to register early, as slots are limited and demand is high,” said Naaz Secretary General Cynthia Phiri.
ZIMBABWE is set to become the veritable heartbeat of African athletics education this August, as the National Athletics Association of Zimbabwe (Naaz) prepares to launch four consecutive, world-class training and certification courses right here in Bulawayo.
In a bold and ambitious move towards truly professionalising the sport, White City Stadium will serve as the host for a pivotal series of World Athletics-accredited programmes. These initiatives are specifically designed to significantly upskill local teachers, coaches, and technical officials, unequivocally placing Zimbabwe firmly on the international athletics map.
First on the agenda is the World Athletics Level 1 Technical Officials Education and Certification System (TOECS), scheduled to run from 18–20 August. This intensive course, expertly tailored for teachers and aspiring officials, promises globally recognised certification and will be delivered by seasoned, World Athletics appointed experts. The course fee is US$200, with a US$50 deposit granting immediate access to the essential online modules. Aspiring participants should note that only the first 20 paid applicants will be accepted, ensuring a focused and effective learning environment.
Immediately following, from 21–23 August, Naaz will proudly host the CECS Level 1 Coaching Course. This programme is meticulously designed for school and youth coaches — widely recognised as the key architects of grassroots talent development. With just 30 places available, this vital course follows the same straightforward payment structure, costing a total of US$300.
Running concurrently from 21–26 August, the CECS Level 2 Middle and Long Distance Course will cater exclusively to 15 selected participants. This high-performance programme offers in-depth, advanced instruction in endurance disciplines, priced at US$350. It is tailored for coaches who are genuinely ready to significantly elevate their expertise in this demanding area of athletics.
Rounding off this impactful schedule is the CECS Level 2 Throws Course, taking place from 25–30 August. Specifically designed for coaches specialising in disciplines such as shot put, discus, javelin, and hammer throw, this elite-level course will also admit a select group of just 15 individuals, ensuring dedicated, and high-quality instruction.
Crucially, all courses include comprehensive certification, daily lunch, and refreshments, providing a supportive and conducive environment for all participants. This August promises to be a transformative month for athletics in Zimbabwe, setting a strong precedent for future development across the continent.
“These courses are part of our broader strategy to professionalise and grow athletics from grassroots to elite levels. We urge interested individuals to register early, as slots are limited and demand is high,” said Naaz Secretary General Cynthia Phiri.
