This training is part of “Project 2027,” an initiative by CSED to provide Nigerian school children and youths access to learn and play netball in a safe space.
By TheInvestigator
The Community Sport and Educational Development (CSED) Initiative, in collaboration with the Cross River State Ministry of Education, recently organized a two-day seminar on netball for Physical Education Teachers in the State. The event, held on May 2nd and 3rd, 2024, took place at the Table Tennis Hall of the U.J. Esuene Stadium in Calabar.
This training is part of “Project 2027,” an initiative by CSED to provide Nigerian school children and youths access to learn and play netball in a safe space. Netball, uniquely designed for girls and women, is viewed by CSED as a significant tool for promoting the health, well-being, and empowerment of the girl child, integrating sports with academic pursuits.
The seminar drew 38 participants from various secondary schools in the state, including three Cameroonian refugees representing communities based in Adagom 1, Adagom 3, and Ukende Camps in Ogoja local government area. Facilitators included Edema Fuludu and Dr. Grace Ataha, supported by Ifiok Inim, a P.E. Teacher from Uyo.
Dr. Ping Osaji Nsagha from the Human Kinetic Department of the University of Calabar was among the newly trained netball coaches. Additionally, two students from the University of Uyo benefited from the training, utilizing a manual developed by Ambassador Mary Waya, a certified Netball Africa instructor. The trained coaches received free sports shirts donated by Lord’s Taverners, a UK-based charity.
The training covered the basics of the game, netball rules, court marking, different positions, associated roles, warming-up, passing and throwing techniques, movement restrictions, and scoring practice. It concluded with a practice game between the newly trained coaches divided into teams blue and purple.
Another crucial aspect of the training was a session on safeguarding, presented by Dr. Grace Ataha. The coaches were reminded of the importance of providing a safe environment for students and athletes. Access to free online safeguarding training was subsequently provided to the coaches.
Mrs. Okama U. Amos, Director of Schools at the Ministry of Education, expressed satisfaction with the NGO’s commitment to development and empowerment programs targeting females. She encouraged participants to utilize the training effectively and become reliable coaches in the revitalization of netball in Nigeria. She also pledged to collaborate with Mr. Orlando Asuquo, Director of School Sports at the Ministry, to monitor the distribution and use of donated netball starter packs to participating schools.
Mr. Moses Ita, Director of Sports at the State Sports Commission, urged participants to apply the knowledge gained to drive netball development in the state, envisioning netball becoming a medal event in the National Sports Festival. He also promised support in extending the sport to schools in local government areas not represented in the seminar.