News

D-License coaching course with a difference

Jun 23, 2021

GABORONE, Botswana – About 20 aspiring coaches have concluded in the Botswana Football Association (BFA) D-License coaching course at Lekidi Football Centre in Gaborone. Coordinated by BFA Instructor, Barobi Nwako assisted by Vincent Dlamini, the weeklong course, which covers modules from grassroots to preliminary started on Monday, June 14th and will end today (Friday, June 18th).

The course, which was divided into two parts; theory and practical sessions drew aspiring coaches from the Northern block region which include Boteti, Chobe and FRAFA respectively. Nwako said it is important for aspiring coaches to take up such courses so that they understand the technical dynamics of the coaching world.

Amongst some of the modules covered include code of conduct, what makes a good coach, importance of warm-up and cool down, different coaching styles, how do young players learn, components of a coaching session-SMILES and STEPS in football, safeguarding children’s rights, session planning, community development through football, skills and qualities of a good coach, and the infusion of life skills in football sessions.

The participants were also put into working groups for a case study, which saw them develop a grassroots festival which accorded them an opportunity to understand the different stages of learning for diverse age groups. Nwako added, “it is important for the BFA to invest in training more coaches as this ensures that there is a sound development system coming from the ground upwards. This group of coaches are excited and willing to learn and share their skills and I am also impressed to see former players venturing into coaching. Their presence further assures that they are not lost to football.” Some of the players who had enrolled for the course include Township Rollers captain, Maano Ditshupo.

Up Next

BFA Medcial Committee Training of Compliance Officers Gets Underway

Don't Miss

BFA and Amrouche part amicably

Development

The Mares Display Heart In Tri Nations Challenge

Botswana’s senior women’s national football team recently concluded their campaign in the prestigious Three Nations Challenge, hosted by South Africa from 28 May to 3 June at the Lucas Moripe Stadium. The series saw spirited competition between Botswana, South Africa, and Zambia, as teams continued their preparations for the upcoming Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) qualifiers.

Despite narrowly missing out on the top prize, Botswana showed immense character and growth throughout the tournament. The Mares kicked off their campaign with a thrilling encounter against the African champions South Africa, narrowly going down 3-2 in a tightly contested match. The team bounced back with a determined performance against Zambia, securing a 1-1 draw and demonstrating resilience and tactical discipline.

Final Tournament Results:

South Africa 3–2 Botswana

Botswana 1–1 Zambia

South Africa 2–0 Zambia

South Africa’s Banyana Banyana were ultimately crowned champions of the series, winning both of their matches to take the top spot. The tournament offered valuable game time and experience for all participating nations, and Botswana’s technical team, led by Head Coach Alex Malete, will take key insights from these fixtures as they refine the squad for the crucial WAFCON fianals.