Professional football technical coaching course kicks off

The course, which ends on 7th April this year, brought together coaches from various teams across the country. The coaches are expected to apply the knowledge gained on their respective teams for the development of football in the country.

Organized by the Gambia National Olympic Committee (GNOC), the course is being conducted by the course director, Mr Jan Borge Poulsen of Denmark.

Speaking to participants before commencement of the 12-day training, GNOC president Alhagie Momodou Dibba highlighted the significance of their partnership with the Gambia Football Federation (GFF), especially regarding the organization of the course.

Revealing their intention to have had the course taken since last December, he told the gathering of the difficulties of partnering in finding the appropriate person for the conduction of such a course.

Applauding the GFF for realising the level-three course for coaches, he added that they, the coaches, need their licences for effective operation. He as well urged the GFF to decentralize football as far as to the provinces.

At the GNOC level, Dibba said they are going to collaborate with FIFA, the Olympic Solidarity through the Olympic movement in ensuring the effective conduction of courses as well as the development of sport.

Course director Jan Borge Poulsen, who worked for two years as national team coach of Tanzania and qualified them to the qualification group, said there are opportunities in Africa and The Gambia, which permitted FIFA to have recognized such a course.

He says the progress of football in The Gambia heavily relies on the coaches, while calling for their commitment and active participation in sport.

He thanked FIFA for allowing him to conduct the course.