KUALA LUMPUR – 14 Sabahan coaches and sports administrators were selected to participate in the 2023 Sports Visitor Programme in the US.
The participants were identified and selected by the Sabah Youth Council, the Sabah Football Club, and US Embassy in Malaysia.
In a statement, the US Embassy in Malaysia said the programme will run from January 6 to 23, and will introduce participants to American leadership styles, best practices, and key contacts in sports, specifically football.
They will also be introduced to sports leaders ranging from community-based recreational youth sports administrators to professional league coaches.
“Participants will learn the latest coaching theories and techniques and meet world-class sports organisations in Philadelphia and Miami.
“They will also attend the United Soccer Coaches Convention 2023, a leading professional development event for football coaches and administrators,” read the statement.
The US Embassy added that the participants will then share the knowledge and skills they gained with their local communities through multiple train-the-trainer programmes and football clinics in Sabah upon completion of the programme.
Sabah Chief Minister Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor said sports is an excellent way to empower youth and to build their resilience and leadership skills.
He told the participants to “use this opportunity to learn and get the best out of your experience, be good ambassadors and make Sabah proud.”
Meanwhile, US Ambassador to Malaysia Brian McFeeters said the United States recognises the power of sports to bring people and nations together by embracing universal values to promote peace and social harmony.
“I wish all the coaches and sports administrators a fruitful exchange experience in the US and look forward to the ongoing impact they will make with youth in their local communities,” he said.
Managed by the US State Department’s Bureau of Education and Cultural Affairs, the sports visitor programme leverages sports to empower young coaches and administrators with leadership and conflict resolution skills, and subsequently promote regional security and stability.
It also aims to empower women and girls, promote disability rights, and foster academic and leadership success. – The Vibes, December 22, 2022
