Qatar Foundation and Seashore Group have joined forces to offer training workshops for coaches as part of the Ability Friendly Programme in Doha, Qatar. The program focuses on enhancing coaching techniques in swimming and football to promote inclusive sports activities for individuals with disabilities. Mark David Hughes, Executive Director of Special Schools & SEN Services at Qatar Foundation, highlighted the importance of increasing the knowledge and expertise of coaches in order to build capacity within Qatar and the GCC.
Hughes emphasized the crucial role that coaches play in not only developing athletes’ skills but also boosting their confidence and overall performance through tailored training programs. He stressed the importance of raising awareness among coaches to provide the right support for athletes with disabilities. The workshops aim to equip coaches with essential skills in communication, safety, and adaptive coaching techniques to effectively work with individuals with disabilities, such as wheelchair users, visually impaired athletes, amputees, and individuals with autism.
The training workshops are based on real-life experiences, offering practical training where coaches can apply adaptive techniques. Initially focusing on swimming and football, the program plans to expand into other sports in the future. Saqer Saeed Al Mohannadi, Vice Chairman of the Board of Directors at Seashore Group, highlighted the company’s commitment to corporate social responsibility and community well-being through its support of the Ability Friendly Programme.
Al-Mohannadi stated that Seashore Group’s involvement aims to equip trainers with essential skills to effectively work with individuals of all abilities, ensuring transformative experiences for participants. The partnership strengthens the Ability Friendly Programme by ensuring coaches are well-prepared to provide personalized attention to participants, fostering inclusivity, diversity, and accessibility across Qatar. This initiative aligns with the company’s goals of community engagement and empowerment, providing life-changing opportunities for individuals with disabilities to build confidence and skills through sports and coaching programs.
Registration is now open for football and swimming workshops scheduled from 17th October to 28th November. The football sessions will be held at Multaqa (Education City Student Center) with a capacity of 12 participants, while swimming workshops will take place at the Recreation Center accommodating 8 participants. This partnership between Qatar Foundation and Seashore Group reflects a commitment to promoting inclusivity, diversity, and accessibility in sports through specialized coaching techniques for individuals with disabilities.
