The Sunday News
MORE local coaches and match officials are now certified World Rugby Educators after they passed a course at Innovate High Performance Centre in Harare recently.
The training was conducted by World Rugby training manager Jock Peggie, ran from 23 to 25 April. The certification is valid for a period of three years and is renewable as long as the individuals still meet the criteria.
From the referees, Jacques Nel, Walter Njowa, Simbarashe Dangah as well as Abigail Kawonza got the certification to groom the next generation of match officials while from the coaches side Ruben Kumpasa, Shaun De Souza, Nsikelelo Sibanda, Brendon Brider and Bob Makani are now licenced to educate other coaches. Abigail Mnikwa was the only medic who attended the training then went on to finish her course in Cape Town, South Africa.
The licenced coaches and referees are now empowered to conduct courses for up to level two in their respective fields.
Zimbabwe Rugby Union director of rugby Brighton Chivandire said the certification of more locals should have a positive impact on the development of the game locally as those who are qualified will be able to train others.
“Our expectation is that our rugby will improve because the coaches are now qualified to educate others,’’ said Chivandire.
Previously, Drew Roberts together with Mudiwa Mundawarara were the only licenced referees educators while Chivandire and Godwin Murambiwa were the only coaches who could conduct coaching courses.
