The IHF’s Olympic Solidarity (OLSOL) programme for 2023 got underway in Yemen in February, with 24 participants in a Level D Technical Course for Coaches. The course took place over five days in cooperation with and at the facilities of the Al-Ahly Sana club, and with the full support of the National Olympic Committee. The course was led by IHF Commission of Coaching and Methods member Dr Khaled Al-Sharji. 

As is the usual structure for OLSOL courses, the course included both theoretical and practical components. The content was centred around children’s handball and the work of the IHF Handball at School Working Group. 

The course began with introductions to handball and mini handball on the opening day. In the theoretical component, participants learned about a broad range of topics including the philosophy of the Handball at School programme, methodology, talent selection, unit and lesson planning, organisation of events in schools and mini handball festivals, and motor learning. Additionally, characteristics of stages of the teaching process, qualitative and quantitative assessment of players and curriculum were examined. 

The practical component addressed basic attacking and defensive skills; different kinds of games and activities, including lead-up, small-sided and mini handball games; fundamental tactical elements in small groups; and basic game forms. 

As part of the course completion, participants submitted training plans to enable evaluation of their understanding of the learned content, took part in a written test and underwent individual interviews. The final day also saw a practical assessment focused on unit planning and teaching. 

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. 

More OLSOL courses will take place in 2023. So far, two courses, to be held in Sudan and Seychelles in May, have been confirmed, with more to follow.