Locals take first step on coaching ladder

A NUMBER of local football coaches took their first step on the coaching ladder by successfully attaining their IFA Level One award recently.

Candidates from Ballykeel, Harryville, Ballee and Ballymena United Youth Academy were among those who completed the award during four Sundays in January, delivered by IFA Grassroots Development Officer Wesley Gregg.

The award included modules on Child protection delivered by IFA Child Protection Manager Jim Grattan, First aid and overuse injuries in young children by The British Red Cross, delivered by Francis Sanderson BRC Tutor, and a Referees awareness module.

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Wesley explained: “The Level One course was attended by local people with all levels of coaching experience.

“Aimed at coaching young children, the course sets in place the essential elements of coaching practice generic in most sports at level one of space awareness and ball familiarisation.

“Behind every great team or athlete there is usually an outstanding coach, there have been exceptions in the past, but, as sport becomes increasingly competitive, so is the need for coaching expertise becomes vital.

“Expertise will help coaches earn the respect of all they come in contact with and help in the development of their own coaching potential and, more importantly, the potential of the player or team they are guiding,” added Wesley.

The course was funded by the Department of Social Development in partnership with Ballymena Community Sport Programme and delivered by The Irish Football Association.