FREETOWN (
Olympic Solidarity / coaching) - Olympic Solidarity Clinic for basketball coaches has been conducted By Mr William Cain from France in Sierra Leone from February 14th to February 23rd 2006.
A Joint Effort
This clinic saw the collaboration of the Sierra Leone Basketball Federation and the National Olympic Committee (NOC) of Sierra Leone. It is important to note that the NOC is playing a major role in the development of all sports in Sierra Leone, especially in the development of basketball.
Very Good Participation and Organization
The number of participants was 25. They actively participated in both the theory and practical courses. The topics of the course were: responsibility, learning concepts, and strategies for the beginners. The organisation was very good, and the accommodations and food scored high. There were no shortages of young players during the two sessions.
Improvements but Shortage of Equipment
There were shortages of basketballs and a need for different types of balls is obvious, especially for young players. The course materials used by Mr Cain were the "Basketball for young players" book and course guidelines were followed. Unfortunately, video equipment was not available.
FIBA Africa can Help
Unfortunately there are no FIBA accredited referees, commissioners, time and score keepers, coaches, so the general basketball knowledge is very low. Mr Cain suggested that National Basketball federation should contact FIBA Africa and get more information on the formation of referees and coaches and how to improve organizational structure of the federation.
Mr Cain found that some members of the Sierra Leone basketball community did not have any knowledge of the current rules including some of the recent changes. The majority had little knowledge of the general FIBA rules, but it is important to note that the NBA games are largely followed on the television.
A Step in the Right Direction
Overall everyone was pleased with the outcome of the course and especially with the progress since the last clinic. The current work done by Mr Cain was immeasurable as it helped to identify the areas which need to be developed further. Also the expertise given both at the coaches' level and organisational level should help steer the Sierra Leone Amateur Basketball Association in the right direction and help basketball flourish in all of the provinces of the country.