The ISSF Academy has successfully held its latest in-person B course at the Kisakallio Sport Institute in Lohja, Finland, ensuring coaching standards remain high in shooting sport.
A total of 52 participants from 24 countries travelled to the city to complete the second part of the course, which also features an online section.
In this period, the participants learned practical techniques from 13 of the best instructors in the world and three ISSF Academy staff members over five days.
The opening day focused on introductions and personal expectations and feedback on their respective feedback papers. Learning teams were established on the first day too.
Seminars from a sports psychologist, medical doctor and media professional took place on the second and third days, as did training sessions related to planning, physical testing and coaching as a team leader.Several sessions focused on planning training for athletes
On the last two days, participants started with shooting range preparations, with instructors also providing practical sessions for rifle and pistol and shotgun and shooting techniques workshops on the Thursday.
Friday saw the conclusion of the course, with a reflection on the lessons learned from the B course and information provided for the A course. A course questionnaire was handed out and students wrote out their personal development plans. The course evaluation and subsequent graduation signalled the end of the course, with newly-qualified coaches then forming networks to remain in touch in the future.
Meals were provided throughout all five days and participants were treated to periods of leisure and health, including sauna sessions.
ISSF Academy CEO, Karoliina Nissinen, said the feedback was “very positive”, with participants enjoying the course content, team building and the formation of friendships through the peer-to-peer learning.
From 41 answers, the participants scored the course an average of 4.7 out of 5 on satisfaction of the course.
There are now 19 shotgun, 18 rifle and 15 pistol coaches newly qualified.
The ISSF Academy also reminds that anyone who is eligible to study for the first new format A course, which is the highest level of coaching in the ISSF Academy, must apply by 10 September (Wednesday).
