Olympic solidarity course ends with call for coaches to drive judo growth

The National Olympic Committee of Kenya (NOCK) has challenged coaches who participated in the Olympic Solidarity Technical Course for Coaches to use the knowledge gained during the programme to strengthen coaching structures and help grow judo across the country.

Speaking during the closing ceremony of the five-day course, NOCK Vice President Barnaba Korir described the programme as a valuable learning experience that brought together coaches for both theoretical and practical training aimed at improving coaching standards.

The course was conducted under the guidance of International Judo Federation (IJF) expert Salim Bougoffa, with participants undergoing intensive sessions designed to sharpen their technical knowledge and align their coaching methods with international standards.

"This course has been a remarkable journey of learning, exchange and inspiration. Our coaches have immersed themselves in both theoretical and practical sessions, strengthening their knowledge and sharpening their skills to meet international standards," said Korir.

Beyond the training sessions, participants also took part in community demonstrations in Nairobi and Kitui, where they showcased the sport to members of the public.

According to Korir, the outreach activities helped highlight the values of judo while inspiring young people to take up the sport and reinforcing the role of sport in education, inclusion and social transformation.

He thanked the International Judo Federation and the Africa Judo Federation for their continued support in advancing coaching education in Africa, noting that investing in coaches ultimately contributes to the development of athletes capable of competing on the continental and global stage.

Korir also commended the Kenya Judo Federation, led by President Shadrack Maluki, and its executive committee for successfully organizing the programme.

Addressing the participants, Korir reminded them that the skills acquired during the course would have an impact far beyond the training hall.

"The knowledge and skills you have acquired here are not just for personal growth, but for the benefit of your clubs, universities, schools and communities. You now carry the responsibility of shaping the next generation of judokas, instilling discipline, respect and resilience in every athlete you mentor," he said.

He urged the coaches to translate the lessons learned into stronger coaching structures, better athlete development pathways and increased participation in judo both in Kenya and across Africa.

Korir reaffirmed NOCK's commitment to supporting programmes that strengthen the foundations of sport and uphold the values of the Olympic Movement.

He said the success of the course, the partnerships built and the knowledge shared should serve as a foundation for the continued growth of judo in Kenya and beyond.