KIDS Athletics: 32 trainers begin Senegal capacity course

KIDS Athletics is strengthening its coaching network in Senegal, with 32 trainers receiving specialised instruction before taking the programme to children across the country. The course is intended to give regional encadreurs the skills to develop athletics activities and identify promising young participants.

The international session is being held at the Stade from 10 to 12 September under the technical supervision of World Athletics, in partnership with the Senegalese Athletics Federation. Participants represent all 14 regions of Senegal, while two officials from the federation’s technical directorate are also involved. After the course, the trainers are expected to prepare the animators and instructors who will implement KIDS Athletics in their respective regions.

The programme covers running and throwing activities, as well as the different stages of introducing children to athletics. Its method places emphasis on enjoyment and helping children feel part of the programme, rather than treating early participation solely as performance training.

The initiative is also linked to preparations for the Dakar 2026 Youth Olympic Games. Senegalese athletics officials see the expansion into schools and the regions as a way to increase the sport’s reach among young people and create a wider base from which future talent can emerge.