Riga, Latvia, is preparing to host an impactful two-day “Action Volley” youth volleyball coaching course from October 15-16. These vital sessions will take place at the Riga Volleyball School, under the expert guidance of Remko Kenter, the esteemed Dutch founder of “Action Volley” and the current Secretary of the European Coaches Commission (ECoC).
Participants successfully completing the course will be awarded a prestigious CEV certificate. Conducted entirely in English, these courses represent a collaborative effort with CEV, aligned with their broader CEV School Project titled ‘Play Volleyball – Grow with it’. “Action Volley,” established by Kenter in 2019, operates on a profound philosophy: “Volleyball through the eyes of children.” Since its inception, the program has made remarkable strides, delivering over 100 domestic workshops and 28 international sessions across the Netherlands, reaching approximately 2,500 coaches and significantly impacting an estimated 30,000 children.
Innovative Course Structure and Pedagogical Approach
The curriculum is thoughtfully designed to provide a comprehensive learning experience. The first day will immerse coaches in the foundational principles of “Action Volley,” while the second day will introduce the dynamic “Smashball” game. Both days will skillfully integrate theoretical insights with practical, hands-on application on the court, concluding with an evaluative exam to consolidate learning.
Kenter passionately outlines the essential role of modern youth coaches: “Coaches should be able to connect and empathise with the world of children. It is important that kids feel safe and comfortable in the group. Coaches also need to be able to explain things in a way that fits the language and understanding of children. While the practical aspect – being active on the court – is undoubtedly the most enjoyable, it is absolutely crucial that all practical activities are underpinned by a clear coaching vision.”
He further addresses the evolving landscape of youth sports and the necessity for adaptation, noting that today`s children are more outspoken and inquisitive than previous generations. Kenter highlights a critical challenge facing traditional volleyball: “In many countries, fewer children, particularly boys, are playing volleyball. One significant reason is that volleyball can be a technically demanding sport. Older training methodologies heavily emphasized technique, which often proved difficult and, consequently, boring for children.”
However, Kenter offers a powerful solution through modern, child-centric methodologies: “Thanks to new approaches like Action Volley and Smashball, children are rediscovering the joy of the game because it’s played and taught in a different, more engaging way. Nowadays, coaches must prioritize fostering autonomy and genuine connection with their players.” These innovative methods are designed to reignite children`s passion for the sport by focusing on fun, engagement, player independence, and building stronger coach-player relationships.
Registration and Logistics
The comprehensive course fee is €70, which covers all theoretical and practical training modules, along with a provided lunch and refreshing coffee breaks. Sessions are scheduled daily from 9:00 to 17:00, including a dedicated hour-long lunch break. Prospective participants are strongly encouraged to register promptly, as the number of available places is strictly limited. The final deadline for all applications is October 10.
