After Day 3 in Kinjia Barea, all coaches are even more motivated to continue with this experience as they continue to share their knowledge and collaborate with other coaches from other countries.
Last Updated on
July 18, 2024
Emmanuel Shine
Staff Writer
After Day 3 in Kianjia Barea, all coaches are more motivated than ever to continue this enriching experience. They eagerly share their knowledge and collaborate with peers from other African nations, fostering a spirit of unity and mutual learning.
Mini Basketball aims to develop basketball at the grassroots level, combat physical inactivity, address childhood obesity, and nurture a love for the game. This is achieved through fun, game-based learning, emphasising enjoyment over competition.
While Mini Basketball incorporates the essential skills of traditional basketball, it is not played in the conventional manner. Coaches must adapt to this new approach, which can be challenging for those accustomed to competitive play or traditional teaching methods. This forum provides the necessary guidance for coaches to embrace and implement these innovative techniques.
Many of the games played and taught during Mini Basketball do not require a rim, yet they incorporate most of the skills needed for basketball. The games are modified to ensure every player can participate in a game-like environment, promoting inclusivity and engagement.
Tunisian coach, Syrine Elouedi, said that she continues to learn new things and wishes that this is not the last of Mini Basketball in Africa.
She stated “We continue to learn new things, new methodologies, new ways of communicating with the players. It is not so much about the technical aspect of the game but rather that the children flourish and have fun”.
She added that she looks forward to showing these new exercises to her young players in Tunisia.
Coach Ali Kpeto from Ghana echoed these sentiments. He acknowledges that Mini Basketball differs from traditional basketball but is enthusiastic about learning techniques that can be adapted to regular basketball. He observed that the children are happier learning basketball this way and noticed an immediate positive change when applying this approach.
The teachings extend beyond the court, instilling values that the children will use throughout their lives. Coach Sandra Satumba from Zimbabwe expressed her excitement about learning new drills and eagerly anticipated bringing this knowledge back to her students in Zimbabwe.
She added “it [the camp] is helping a lot. Even with life skills and discipline…all those skills that we think are actually for adults, the kids can also learn them.’’
The goals of Mini Basketball are being achieved. Coaches are being equipped with the necessary skills to advance this initiative. With one day remaining in the camp, its impact will undoubtedly resonate throughout the continent.
[Photography / Imagery Courtesy of FIBA Africa]
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