A five-day Olympic Solidarity level one coaching course for coaches of the first and second division domestic leagues came to an on Tuesday at the Football Hotel in Yundum. The course brought together 20 participants.
Giving his remarks at the closing ceremony, the General Secretary Lamin M. Jassey said the GFF has redirected it’s approach to bottom top, noting that over the years, so much concentration was put into the National Team but now that has changed. He said the GFF wants to professionalise the league in 2021 which requires setting qualification standards for coaches before they can qualify to coach in the leagues.
On his part, Sang John Ndong the Technical Director of GFF advised the coaches to put into practice the knowledge gained. “There is no short curve in football as a coach; you have to train and work hard to succeed,” he said, adding that the training is to prepare them for the upcoming CAF C License course.
Sadibou Kamasso, GFF Exco Member, thanked The Gambia National Olympic Committee (GNOC) for coming to the Federation’s aid, noting that the GFF put plans to build the capacities of referees, medics, administrators and coaches. “We believe if we build capacities then football will develop.”
Speaking on behalf of the GNOC President Dodou Capy Joof, Mr. Abdoulie Jallow the Secretary General said they are very happy to associate themselves with the course. Jallow said building the capacities of our local coaches is very essential in football development. “Football is no longer a global sport but a unifying force,” he said, while thanking the course instructor and assure the GFF that, the GNOC will continue to partner with them in future.
Delivering the vote of thanks on behalf of the participants, Baboucarr Bojang hailed the GFF and GNOC for the opportunity, saying it comes at the right time. “The training comes at a time when it is most needed.” He said they have learnt a lot within the five days but was quick to add that they recommend it to be extended next time and also for the training to be done annually.
At the end of the closing ceremony, all the participants were awarded certificates for completing the course.
Reporting by Ebrima Suwareh & Editing by Baboucarr Camara