Bhutan will have the first batch of certified International Basketball Federation (FIBA) level I coaches upon completion of the week-long basketball coaching and certification programme that’s being held at Thimphu Primary School.

A total of 19 teachers, sports teacher, and coaches are participating in the programme.

The course is conducted to familiarise participants with new coaching curriculum that was launched by FIBA in November last year.

FIBA Asia instructor, Dr Koh Koon Teck, is training the participants.

“The new coaching curriculum provides excellent resource for the coaches of all levels and makes sure all the coaches uses the same curriculum materials,” he said.

The participants have to attend a two-hour written test after the week-long course. Those who pass the final test will be certified FIBA Level I coach.

After the course, the coaches are expected to have a common standard in terms of coaching. They will be the members of World Association of Basketball Coaches. The certificate is recognised worldwide.

“This new coaching curriculum will help other coaches and federation recognise the coach easily,” said the coach.

The course focuses on  dealing with youth players to give them effective coaching. Three women sports teachers and a woman coach from the federation are attending the coaches clinic.

A teacher at Wangdicholing LSS from Bumthang, Kinga Wangmo, said that the clinic will benefit her and the school which doesn’t have a female sports teacher.

“I will be able to teach them everything that I learn here,” she said.

Another teacher from Bumthang, Sangay Wangdi, said that after completing the course, he will be able to contribute in the summer coaching conducted in the dzongkhag.

“This would help me form a school basketball club and improve the level of the sport,” he said.

He mentioned that the basketball federation within two years has brought development in some key areas of the sport. “The number of certified coaches and referees has increased which is good for the progress of sport.”

The programme will end on July 23.

Nima