The IHF D-Licence Course, held from July 30th to August 3rd in Abuja, Nigeria, successfully convened a dedicated group of coaches and handball enthusiasts, all united by the common goal of elevating the technical and pedagogical foundations necessary for the sport’s growth in the region. Over the span of five intensive days, the 14 participants, who were all awarded the IHF D-Licence at the end of the course, participated with a comprehensive curriculum blending both theoretical and practical elements designed to build solid coaching expertise.

The course content covered crucial themes including the role and responsibilities of the coach, simplifying the teaching and learning process, and constructing an effective game model. Participants explored individual tactics as well as fundamental principles of goalkeeping. The curriculum further addressed talent identification and development alongside defensive and offensive strategies. Important coaching methodologies and progression techniques in handball instruction were studied, complemented by a focus on the psychology of children’s and youth sports. Finally, the course incorporated the utilization of digital tools to support coaching.

Practical field exercises, integrated training drills, and in-depth classroom discussions fostered meaningful exchanges of ideas and experiences, enhancing the knowledge network among local coaches and reinforcing community ties.

The course atmosphere was characterized by enthusiasm, active participation, and a shared eagerness to learn. The outstanding local organization, combined with the dynamic and interactive approach led by the IHF lecturer William de Almeida and local trainers, created an inspiring and motivational environment. 

A remarkable achievement of this edition was that all 14 participants successfully completed and were awarded the IHF D-Licence, highlighting the course’s effectiveness and the commitment of local coaches.

This accomplishment reaffirms the IHF’s ongoing dedication to supporting coach education worldwide, ensuring that the highest standards and best practices in handball coaching reach all corners of the sport.