Twenty-four coaches representing 21 countries across three continents have completed the International Boxing Association (IBA) 1-Star Coaches Course, held online from 1 to 10 September.

The ten-day programme brought together coaches from three continents, with 11 countries represented from Oceania, eight from Asia and two from Africa.

The course was led by Dr Gabriele Martelli, Chairman of the IBA Coaches Committee, and provided participants with extensive training across the key areas of modern boxing coaching.

Alongside technical aspects of coaching, the programme covered medical and psychological topics, training planning, nutrition and other areas essential to the preparation and development of boxers. The online format also enabled coaches from different regions and boxing backgrounds to exchange experience and discuss the practical application of the knowledge presented throughout the course.

Dr Martelli highlighted the participants’ engagement and their willingness to further develop their coaching skills. “The IBA educational programme continues to support the growth of coaches worldwide, and once again I met great coaches from different continents who understand the importance of developing their knowledge and skills. 

This was a particularly enjoyable course, with constant back-and-forth interaction and real enthusiasm from the coaches throughout. I wish all the participants the very best for what lies ahead. It was, once again, a great experience teaching you all, and my thanks go to IBA and the whole team for their continued commitment to this platform for coaches, and for their excellent support in delivering the course online,”

IBA Secretary General & CEO Chris Roberts OBE praised the outcome of the course.”Education remains one of the most important investments we can make in the future of our sport. The successful completion of this IBA 1-Star Coaches Course by coaches from 21 countries demonstrates the global commitment to raising coaching standards and creating better opportunities for athletes at every level,” Roberts said.

The IBA 1-Star Coaches Course forms part of the Association’s ongoing educational programme aimed at developing coaching standards and providing coaches worldwide with the knowledge and skills required to support athletes at different stages of their careers.