By: Mohamed Abu Conteh
The Sierra Leone Judo Association (SLJA) has successfully concluded the International Judo Federation (IJF) Academy Coaching Licensing Technical Course, at the Country Lodge in Freetown.
This important event marks an important landmark in the development of Judo in Sierra Leone, with the aim of improving coaching standards and promoting the sport countrywide.
Speaking during the closing ceremony, Idriss Massaquoi, the President of the Sierra Leone Judo Association, expressed deep gratitude to all those who made the course a success, acknowledging the vital support of the President of the National Olympic Committee of Sierra Leone (NOC-SLE), Prince Sualley his Executive members whose obligation to sports development has created an environment where athletes can flourish.
He further extended special thanks to Marius Vizer, the President of the International Judo Federation, for his leadership and vision in promoting Judo globally.
“Your dedication to Judo is truly inspiring, and we are grateful for your ongoing support,” Massaquoi affirmed.
The course was led by two distinguished Judo experts, Franck Moussima and Dr. Slavisa Bardic, who shared their vast knowledge and expertise with the participants. Massaquoi commended their guidance, noting that their contributions have been instrumental in enhancing the skills and understanding of Sierra Leone’s coaches. “Your mentorship has been paramount in shaping the future of Judo coaching in our country,” he stated.
The President also took the opportunity to recognize the efforts of the Sierra Leone Judo Association’s executive and technical committee for their continuous work in developing the sport.
“Your dedication and passion for Judo have not gone unnoticed,” he said, emphasizing the crucial role they play in advancing the sport’s reach and impact.
Massaquoi highlighted the importance of the technical course, explaining that it was designed to develop the knowledge and skills of coaches. By equipping coaches with the necessary tools, the course aims to enhance their ability to train athletes effectively, ultimately improving the performance of Sierra Leone’s Judo team on both national and international stages.
“Our objective is not just to improve coaching standards but also to spread the love for Judo across Sierra Leone. We aim to reach every corner of the country, nurturing a new generation of talented athletes,” Massaquoi said. “With the dedication of our coaches and the support of our community, we can achieve this vision.”
He assured the experts and participants that the lessons learned during the course would be implemented in future training sessions and competitions. “Together, we will elevate the standards of Judo in Sierra Leone and make our presence felt on the global stage,” he concluded.
For his part, the President of the National Olympic Committee /Commonwealth Games Associations of Sierra Leone (NOC/CGA-SLE) highlighted the ongoing partnership between the NOC and the Judo Association in developing the sport, noting his personal connection with Franck Moussima, one of the course experts, describing him as a disciplined and dedicated individual who has been instrumental in Sierra Leone’s Judo development.
Sualley acknowledged the country’s challenges in international competition, particularly noting the absence of qualified athletes at the last Olympic Games. He stressed the importance of hard work and preparation to ensure that Sierra Leone has qualified athletes in future Olympic Games.
PK Muana, a well-known figure in Sierra Leone’s martial arts community, shared his personal journey, having started Karate in 1981. He encouraged the coaches to work tirelessly for the growth of Judo in the country, stressing the transformative potential of the sport.
Franck Moussima, one of the experts from Cameroon, also spoke at the event, emphasizing the need for continued development and commitment to the sport. He praised the participants for their hard work during the course and reiterated the importance of strong coaching to elevate Sierra Leone’s Judo standing.
At the climax of the course, five participants were awarded their Coaching Licenses, a significant achievement marking their readiness to contribute to the sport’s growth in Sierra Leone. The course not only strengthened coaching capabilities but also highlighted the commitment of the Sierra Leone Judo Association to the long-term development of the sport in the Country.
