By: Mohamed Abu Conteh
The Sierra Leone Weightlifting Association (SLWA) is excited to announce the launch of its national Technical Coaching Course today at the OlympAfrica Center in Goderich. This initiative, supported by Olympic Solidarity through the National Olympic Committee of Sierra Leone (NOC-SL) and the International Weightlifting Federation (IWF), has brought together twenty-five coaches from across the country for a week-long, intensive training program aimed at enhancing coaching standards, technical expertise, and the overall development of weightlifting in Sierra Leone.
In his opening remarks, SLWA President Mohamed ‘Ragga’ Bangura welcomed Dr. Kyle Pierce, the course expert, to Sierra Leone and expressed gratitude for his ongoing support in promoting weightlifting in the country.
President Bangura highlighted that this initiative represents a significant step towards building a robust pipeline of skilled and certified coaches. He stated, “The opportunity granted to us by the leadership of NOC-SLE, Olympic Solidarity, and our international body, IWF, reflects strong global confidence in Sierra Leone’s weightlifting program and its future potential,” while also recognizing Prince Vandy Sulley, President of NOC-SLE, for his contributions.
The Technical Course will feature Dr. Kyle Pierce, a member of the IWF Coaching and Research Committee, who will cover essential modules including modern weightlifting coaching methodologies, technical and tactical skill development, athlete safety and injury prevention, principles of strength and conditioning and competition preparation and international best practices.
The SLWA is dedicated to advancing weightlifting in Sierra Leone, promoting grassroots participation, and ensuring that local coaches and athletes are well-prepared to compete on the international stage.