Intensive volleyball coaching courses, developed by Remko Kenter, founder of the “Action Volley” program and Secretary of the European Coaches Commission (ECoC), will take place in Riga, Latvia, in mid-October. The sessions are scheduled for October 15-16 at the Riga Volleyball School.
Participants will receive a CEV certificate upon completion of the training, which is organized in cooperation with CEV under the “Play Volleyball – Grow with it” project. The courses will be conducted in English.
The Philosophy of Action Volley
The motto of “Action Volley” is “Volleyball through the eyes of children.” Founded by Kenter in 2019, the program has since hosted over 100 local and 28 international workshops across the Netherlands. Approximately 2,500 coaches have participated in these workshops, ultimately reaching about 30,000 children.
The two-day course structure is carefully planned: The first day will introduce coaches to the principles of “Action Volley,” while the second day will focus on the “Smashball” game. Both days will begin with a theoretical overview, followed by practical application of the knowledge, concluding with an exam.
“Coaches must be able to connect with children and understand their world. It is important that kids feel safe and comfortable in the group. Coaches also need to explain material in a language accessible to children,” emphasizes the Dutch expert regarding the main tasks of youth coaches. “The practical part is, of course, the most exciting – active sessions on the court. However, it is crucial that all practical exercises are based on a clear vision.”
Adapting to Modern Youth
Kenter notes that “children have changed significantly in recent years, and that`s normal. We live in a different world. Kids have become more outspoken and ask more questions. Volleyball has not always adapted to these changes. In many countries, fewer and fewer children, especially boys, play volleyball. One reason might be that volleyball is a technically demanding sport. In older training methods, the emphasis was on technique, which often seemed difficult and boring for children.”
“Thanks to new approaches like Action Volley and Smashball, children are finding the game fun again, as it is taught and played in a different, more engaging way. Today, coaches must place more emphasis on autonomy and connection with their players,” Kenter adds.
Course Details
The course fee is €70, which includes both theoretical and practical training, as well as lunch and coffee breaks.
The courses will run daily from 9:00 to 17:00, including a one-hour lunch break and coffee breaks.
The number of available spots is limited!
Applications must be submitted by October 10.
