A total of 32 participants are taking part in the Level 1 & 2 Korfball coaching and refereeing course currently underway at Kamuzu Stadium in Blantyre. The training, which began on Monday, March 31, 2025, is set to conclude on Friday, April 4, 2025.
According to Malawi Korfball Association President, Enock Zalhuso, the course aims to equip participants with essential knowledge to enhance the development of Korfball in the country.
“We believe this training is crucial in ensuring that Korfball is played according to its official rules. With trained coaches and referees, the game will be delivered more effectively to players. Our goal is to make Korfball a sport that people enjoy watching,” Zalhuso explained.
Theo Van der Linde, the International Korfball Development Officer for Africa, who is also facilitating the course, emphasized the importance of building a strong foundation for the sport in Malawi.
“Participants will share the skills they acquire here with others. Korfball is not just a sport; it’s also a way of life. It is the only officially recognized mixed-gender sport in the world. After this course, we hope they will promote it across the country. However, they will need support, especially with equipment, as it is impossible to grow the sport without proper resources,” Van der Linde explained.
One of the participants, Kingsley Nyondo, expressed his satisfaction with the training and encouraged fellow participants to apply what they learn.
“This course is a game-changer for us. We have been playing without proper knowledge of refereeing and coaching, often using outdated rules. This training will help bridge that gap. However, the biggest challenge is the lack of equipment and facilities. If we receive the necessary resources, more people will be encouraged to play,” Nyondo stated.
At the end of the course participants will acquire level 1&2 coaching certificates
Currently, Korfball is played at various locations in Malawi, including Kamuzu Institute for Sports, Kamuzu Barracks, Chilinde 2 Primary School, Katoto, Zingwagwa Youth Centre, Central High, St. Andrews, St. Kizito, and Nanjiri Primary School, among others.
Malawi has already made a mark in the sport, having been crowned champions in both the U-17 and U-21 categories at the Southern Africa Korfball Tournament held at Kamuzu Institute of Sports in Lilongwe in August 2024.