By: Thaimu T Kamara
The Sierra Leone Football Association (SLFA) has taken another decisive step toward strengthening the technical backbone of football development in the country, following the successful completion of a nationwide refresher course for CAF Licence A and B coaches.
Organised by the SLFA through its Technical Department, the three-day intensive programme brought together licensed coaches from across Sierra Leone, reaffirming the association’s commitment to continuous professional development and the adoption of modern coaching standards. The course was designed to refresh existing knowledge, introduce contemporary football concepts, and ensure that local coaching practices remain aligned with evolving global best practices.
A strong contingent of experienced and top-tier coaches from the Leone Rock Premier League participated in the programme. Among those in attendance were Amidu Karim, Musa Kallon, Francis “Zappa” Koroma, Hassan Malik Manasarray, Fatmata Turay and Mohamed Lamin Kamara, alongside several other CAF-licensed coaches, reflecting the national scope and importance of the initiative.
Throughout the three days, participants engaged in a comprehensive blend of classroom-based theoretical sessions and practical on-field exercises. These sessions focused on modern tactical approaches, performance analysis, training methodologies and professional coaching standards, all aimed at enhancing the quality of football instruction at club and national levels. The hands-on nature of the programme allowed coaches to translate theory into practice, reinforcing learning outcomes and encouraging innovation in their respective teams.
The refresher course was spearheaded by SLFA Technical Director, John Edward Keister, a CAF-certified coaching instructor, who facilitated detailed and interactive sessions. His instruction placed particular emphasis on improving technical competence, tactical awareness and adaptability to modern football demands. Keister’s leadership ensured that participants gained practical insights into current trends in elite football coaching, while also addressing challenges specific to the local football environment.
Adding further depth to the programme, SLFA Referees Manager, Alhaji Sanusi Rashid, delivered specialized sessions on the interpretation and application of the Laws of the Game. His presentations focused on clarifying commonly misunderstood rules, promoting fair play, and strengthening cooperation between coaches and match officials for improved match management.
The programme also benefited from a cross-sport perspective through the contribution of Sorie Kamara, former Sierra Leone national volleyball coach and current Technical Director of the National Sports Authority. Kamara shared valuable insights on coaching philosophy, leadership, athlete management and performance optimization, drawing lessons from multiple sports disciplines to enrich the coaches’ understanding beyond football alone.
The successful conclusion of the refresher course underscores the SLFA’s ongoing commitment to capacity building, coach education and sustainable football development. By continuously investing in the technical growth of coaches, the association aims to raise national standards, enhance professionalism and lay a stronger foundation for the future success of football in Sierra Leone.