In an era where digital screens often outshine sports fields, ensuring the next generation falls in love with active pursuits like volleyball is more critical than ever. Latvia is set to host a pivotal event aimed at revitalizing youth engagement through innovative coaching, proving that sometimes, a fresh perspective is all it takes to reignite the spark.
Riga, the vibrant capital of Latvia, will soon become the epicenter for a significant shift in European youth volleyball coaching. From October 15 to 16, the Riga Volleyball School will open its doors to an intensive two-day course led by Dutch coaching luminary Remko Kenter, the driving force behind «Action Volley» and the esteemed Secretary of the European Coaches Commission (ECoC). This initiative, proudly supported by CEV under the `Play Volleyball – Grow with it` School Project, signals a clear message: the future of volleyball lies in the eyes of its youngest players.
The Philosophy: «Volleyball Through the Eyes of Children»
Remko Kenter, a name synonymous with progressive coaching, founded «Action Volley» in 2019 with a refreshingly simple, yet profoundly impactful, slogan: «Volleyball through the eyes of children.» This isn`t just a catchy phrase; it`s a fundamental reimagining of how the sport is taught. In a world where traditional methods often prioritize rigid technique over spontaneous play, Kenter advocates for an environment where fun, safety, and understanding are paramount.
The success of this approach speaks volumes: over 100 «Action Volley» workshops and 28 international sessions have engaged approximately 2,500 coaches, ultimately touching the lives of some 30,000 children. These numbers aren`t mere statistics; they represent thousands of young smiles and rekindled enthusiasms for a sport that, for many, was at risk of becoming overly complex and, dare we say, a bit dull.
Smashball: A Game-Changer on the Court
The upcoming courses in Riga will delve deep into the principles of «Action Volley» on the first day, followed by an introduction to «Smashball» on the second. Both days promise a dynamic blend of theoretical insights and hands-on practical application, culminating in an exam for participants who will earn a coveted CEV certificate. This structured approach ensures that coaches not only grasp the concepts but are also equipped to implement them effectively on the court.
«Coaches should be able to connect and empathise with the world of children,» Kenter emphasizes. «It is important that kids feel safe and comfortable in the group. Coaches also need to be able to explain things in a way that fits the language and understanding of children.» This sentiment underscores a shift from simply instructing to genuinely engaging, transforming coaches into facilitators of fun rather than just taskmasters.
Adapting to the Modern Child: A Necessary Evolution
One might wryly observe that «kids these days» are certainly different, but Kenter`s analysis moves beyond casual observation to pinpoint critical needs. «Children have changed a lot in recent years, and that’s completely normal. We live in a different world than before. Kids have become more outspoken and ask more questions,» he notes. The challenge, it appears, is not with the children, but with the sport`s readiness to evolve alongside them.
For too long, volleyball, a technically demanding sport, often relied on training methods that placed a heavy, sometimes suffocating, emphasis on technique from the outset. While mastery is crucial, an early focus on complex mechanics without sufficient joy can deter young athletes, particularly boys, leading to declining participation rates. «Thanks to new approaches like Action Volley and Smashball, children are finding the game fun again – because it’s played and taught in a different, more engaging way,» Kenter explains. Modern coaches, he contends, must champion autonomy and foster genuine connection with their players, turning training into an adventure rather than a chore.
A Timely Investment in the Future
The Riga courses, conducted in English, offer a unique opportunity for coaches to immerse themselves in these groundbreaking methodologies. For a course fee of €70, participants gain access to both theoretical and practical training, along with the convenience of lunch and coffee breaks. The daily schedule, running from 9:00 to 17:00, is designed for intensive learning, ensuring coaches depart with a wealth of new skills and a refreshed perspective.
The importance of these courses extends far beyond the certificate. They represent a strategic investment in the longevity and vibrancy of volleyball. By equipping coaches with the tools to make the sport accessible, enjoyable, and safe for children, initiatives like «Action Volley» are cultivating not just future athletes, but lifelong enthusiasts.
As the deadline for applications, October 10, rapidly approaches, the message is clear: the opportunity to shape the next generation of volleyball players with a truly impactful approach is at hand. These courses in Latvia are not merely training sessions; they are a pivotal step towards ensuring that the love for volleyball continues to grow, one happy, engaged child at a time.
Torin Vale