Write a commentThe Southern Health & Social Care Trust in partnership with Newry Neighbourhood Renewal partnership through the NR health programme, has delivered a very successful IFA level 1 Soccer Coaching Programme. In total 47 people from across the Neighbourhood renewal areas participated in the training and have received a qualification in Level 1 soccer coaching that will enhance the fitness of the community by cascading the learning into the local community. Facilitated by Malcolm Roberts the local Grass Roots development officer under the auspices of the IFA, the participants undertook training in soccer skills development, child protection, first aid and refereeing. This new training will allow the coaches to use a more professional approach to the delivery of coaching and will support not only their own personal development but the development of children and young people across NR areas.
Marian Cully from the Trust said that the soccer coaching would help to improve the physical activity of young people in the Newry NR area by a more tailored instruction to the needs of the individual young person. An evaluation of the soccer coaching showed that participants have gained a different perspective on coaching in terms of how to incorporate structure, new drills, and fresh ideas, more variation and has instilled new learning. . One of the participants added that he is now much more focused on the levels of each individual and recognises that we need to ensure that the children and young people enjoy the experience of coaching and that their health and well being is paramount at all times.
Sean Mc Kevitt NR co-ordinator Newry and Mourne District Council congratulated all the participants on achieving their award and he also thanked Marian Cully from the SHSCT for her hard work in helping to deliver the programme. He added that this initiative forms part of the overall NR strategy to develop skills at local level and to support the communities in meeting local need. He also thanked the Minister for Social Development and his department for funding the programme.
