The IHF’s 2023 Olympic Solidarity (OLSOL) programme continued in August with the sixth course of the year — this time in Mozambique. The technical course for coaches was run by IHF Commission of Coaching and Methods lecturer Rolando Freitas and presented 24 participants with the chance to gain their IHF D Licence, all of whom did so successfully.  

Freitas reported there was a high level of experience regarding education programmes in the federation and in schools among the course organisers, who “had an excellent vision for the project.” The participants themselves were all teachers, with most specialised in physical education but other disciplines also represented among the cohort. 

“Many are already coaching in the clubs, and others are working with schools,” reported Freitas. “The participants in the course — some of them former players — already know a bunch about handball and only need guidance and supervision. The course was fundamental in spreading knowledge about modern handball and showing a different game-based approach.” 

The course was held in the city of Maputo and involved two weeks of activities, including diverse theoretical and practical sessions on topics starting from basics like the Rules of the Game through to new trends in handball. In addition, Freitas was able to observe half the participants in their usual club practices, hold workshops with coaches and referees, and visit sports schools. 

“Overall, the course was a success because of the number of participants in attendance, the evaluation results, and the opportunity to follow the participants at practice locations, meet middle and university level schools, and encourage and motivate them,” concluded Freitas. 

About Olympic Solidarity

Created by the International Olympic Committee, the OLSOL programme aims to help National Olympic Committees develop and strengthen their structures; support their athletes, coaches and administrators; and promote the Olympic values. The IHF organises a number of OLSOL courses annually, with the goal of assisting different National Federations in developing handball in their countries.

The first course of 2023 was held in Yemen in February, followed by a course in Seychelles in May and three courses in July, in Vietnam, Sierra Leone and Niger.