A very successful Coaching Network day was held in Athlone IT on Sunday April 30th. This was the latest event in the Sprints/Jumps/Hurdles part of the initiative. There were over 75 coaches in attendance on the day and they benefitted from the experience and shared knowledge of the visiting coaches. Michael Afilaka followed a discussion on planning and preparation with two practical workshops. He discussed his methods and demonstrated techniques used with his training group. Michael, who coached Adam Gemili to run sub 20secs for 200m, attracted a large group to attend his sessions.
Alan Kennedy led two workshops with the focus on the triple jump and long jump. Alan has enjoyed strong results with Adam McMullen in recent times and this was reflected as an attentive group of coaches had numerous questions throughout his presentations.
The high jump session was led by Brendan Reilly. Brendan delivered two very well received tutorials focussing on technical aspects as well and conditioning. Barry Pender was one of those to attend and felt it was very beneficial.
"This was my second Sprints/Jumps/Hurdles Network day to attend, and I’ve found both days to be hugely beneficial as an athlete and as a coach. It was great to see so many coaches eager to advance their high jump coaching knowledge. It was also interesting to see Brendan’s coaching methods put into practice throughout the day, giving the coaches who attended a thorough education of training for the event. I look forward to attending more coaching and development days just like it. "
The Coaching Network events are part of Athletics Ireland’s ongoing programme to provide learning opportunities for our coaching community. These events combine expert local coaches with international coaches to share their learning and experience.