Tagum City—Some teachers with zero coaching background were inspired to coach after the five-day pilot test of the Philippine Sports Commission-Philippine Sports Institute Grassroots Coaching Certification Program wrapped up here at the Davao del Norte Sports and Tourism Complex yesterday.
Jerlyn Mae Joy Jabonillo, 32, a Mapeh teacher at San Roque Elementary School, Department of Education (Deped) Panabo City Division, said in the vernacular: “This is really a challenge for me. I am excited to go back and work with my husband who is the one coaching our track and field athletes.”
She said that the experience was fun including the written exams.
Jabonillo also said that the lecture on Sports Psychology by Dr. Karen Trinidad was really an eye opener for her.
“The athletes are the coaches’ priority, their welfare and their well-being,” she said.
Maria Emmelyn Alinas, 39, of Mabunao Elementary School in Panabo City, also thanked organizers of the coaching program.
“This is my first time, I have no background in swimming. But I learned the fundamentals of the sport. We were taught the competitive skills in swimming. I look forward to start coaching,” Alinas said, adding that the she also learned from the lectures that motivation is vital for all athletes.
PSC consultant Prof. Henry Daut, meanwhile, said the pilot test here was participated mostly by beginner coaches. The next testing stage will be held in Davao Oriental and Compostela Valley targeting coaches who have reached the regional meet followed by another one in Davao City and Digos City with Palaro coaches as participants.
After the testing stage, Daut said that Level 1 will require coaches to attend another five-day course where they will have to pass six theoretical exams and practical exam of their respective sports. They will then be monitored and required to attend a coaching clinic or training for their sport. Documentation on their team’s or athletes’ competitions, results and awards must be submitted for assessment.
“The pilot test will help us develop a specific curriculum for all levels of certification,” Daut added.