Mr. Zac Dominguez, an instructor based in the United States, has expressed his satisfaction with the Nigerian Wrestling Federation’s initiative to host a level three Olympic technical course for coaches and referees in Nigeria, in collaboration with the Nigerian Olympic Committee (NOC).
Dominguez shared his views with the press late on Wednesday in Yenagoa, the capital of Bayelsa State. He commended the coaches for their dedication to enhancing their technical skills, game strategies, injury prevention, and player development, stating that they have shown fantastic progress in their learning process.
“In my opinion, all the participants have been fantastic in their learning, and I expect that they will soon become great coaches. They have absorbed all the information and are committed to ensuring Nigeria’s hope for Olympic medals,” Dominguez remarked. He compared wrestling to a marathon, emphasizing that it’s an ongoing journey that requires continuous learning and improvement. He also mentioned the creation of a chat platform to facilitate ongoing discussion and knowledge-sharing among coaches.
Dominguez noted that the reception from coaches and referees has been impressive, with a focus on enhancing coaching and strategies for the next generation of talented athletes.
Ahmed Khedhri, a Tunisian instructor, echoed the sentiment, expressing his admiration for Nigerian coaches and athletes. He believes that Nigeria is on the path to producing Olympic and World champions.
Mr. Habu Ahmed Gumel, President of the Nigerian Olympic Committee (NOC), lauded the organization’s efforts in organising the course, highlighting wrestling as a sport that offers significant potential for Nigeria. He represented the NOC and stated that the strong representation at the course is a positive sign for Nigeria’s quest for Olympic wrestling medals. Gumel added that with the improved skills of coaches and referees, Nigerian wrestlers are well-prepared to compete and win accolades in international competitions, including the Olympic Games and world championships.
Champion Daniel Igali, President of the Nigerian Wrestling Federation, expressed the importance of the three-level coaching course conducted in collaboration with the International Olympic Committee, the International Wrestling Federation (United World Wrestling), and the NOC in Nigeria. He emphasised the crucial role of support staff in wrestling and sports in general, underscoring the significance of having accredited level-three coaches in Nigeria. Igali is confident that this initiative will better prepare the Nigerian Wrestling Federation for the 2024 Paris Olympic Games.
Mrs. Oyinbrakemi Tangi, the Female Head Coach in Bayelsa, praised the organisers of the training course, highlighting its significance in the development of wrestling in Nigeria.
