Leadership Training in Netball Aims to Boost Malawi's Sports Progress
In a five-day capacity-building program, 30 participants, including netball coaches and umpires, gathered to enhance their skills and knowledge in the sport.
LILONGWE, Malawi — The National Sports Council of Malawi is advocating for specialised leadership training in netball to bolster the development of sports in the country, writes Oliver Malibisa.
In a five-day capacity-building program, 30 participants, including netball coaches and umpires, gathered to enhance their skills and knowledge in the sport.
Samuel Kanyenda, the National Sports Council representative and caretaker coach for the Malawi Netball team, also known as "the Malawi Queens," as well as the technical director for the Netball Association of Malawi, emphasised the importance of leadership in the game.
"Netball is a profession, and those in the driving seat must be well-versed in operational skills," Kanyenda stated.
He believes that effective leadership skills can significantly contribute to the performance of Malawi's netball team.
Participants were encouraged to be trustworthy and professional when carrying out their duties, with an emphasis on upholding the integrity of the sport.
Kanyenda noted that while the training will be offered annually, the cost of organising such programs makes them invaluable and not to be missed.
Samson Nyirenda, the District Sports Desk officer in Likoma, expressed excitement that the majority of the participants were youth coaches who would bring their newfound knowledge to schools across the region.
He urged the sports council to continue supporting these initiatives, applauding them for fostering a skilled workforce that can help reduce disputes arising from unprofessional conduct among netball leaders.
One of the participants, umpire Precious Pakhosi, shared how the training had improved his netball organisational and officiating skills.
He called upon his fellow participants not to take the training for granted but to focus on elevating the status of netball in their communities, particularly in the island district of Likoma.
The National Sports Council's commitment to enhancing leadership skills within netball reflects its dedication to the growth and success of sports in Malawi.
This initiative aims to create a pool of knowledgeable and professional leaders who can guide the sport to new heights, benefiting both players and enthusiasts of netball throughout the nation.