Following the introduction of Wheelchair Rugby Ready, new courses are available through the WWR Academy. Priority areas have been identified to support the development of coaches and classifiers. Signing up is easy. Go to the website and click on Education. If you haven’t already signed up to the Academy, it takes a few minutes and gives you access to all of these resources.
Classification in wheelchair rugby is important and so the development of new classifiers and educating them will help introduce people at the national level. It’s the start of their pathway towards international certification.
The course breaks down the general process of classification from the classifier perspective. It introduces trunk testing, manual muscle testing, technical assessment and observation testing. At the end of the course there is a video exercise for the learner to try what they learned and obtain feedback.
WWR Head of Classification, Jacque Erasmus said “Consistency in decision making is crucial with classification and with education centralised globally it will help to improve this. Additionally, the launch of a specific module on how to measure limb deficiency will help support consistency not just with new people starting out in the sport but also existing internationally certified classifiers”.
With our other priority area, WWR recognise the importance of coaches in the grassroot development of clubs for national bodies. This other important area has not previously been addressed by the International Federation and so it is exciting to see the roll out of not just an “Activators Course” but also the “Intermediate Level 2”.
Rob Tarr, PLY is Head of Coaching Education and said “through WWR’s coaching pathway, the Activator course provides the foundation for those new to coaching, supporting the development of coaching skills and grassroots clubs. The Intermediate Level 2 course builds on this foundation, helping coaches deepen their knowledge, refine their practice and progress towards the performance pathway. Our aim is to turn passion for the sport into practical coaching skills, knowledge and confidence, empowering coaches to develop players, strengthen clubs and contribute to the future growth of wheelchair rugby worldwide.
Great players help build great teams, but great coaches inspire the next generation and shape the future of our sport.”
Further courses will be developed over the next 12-18 months in the other priority area of officiating with a focus on refereeing and table officiating.
In partnership with the World Academy of Sport, attendance and certification will be managed through the platform CENSEO. Additionally, digital certificates are available that will support individuals in their educational journey and contribute towards Continuing Personal Development.
All of this work has been carried out by volunteers involved in the sport and once again demonstrates the inspirational commitment of individuals. The skill sets are world class.
WWR would like to thank Rob Tarr, Head of Coaching Education and his Curriculum Advisor Group. For classification thanks to Randy Tresidder and Julie Bakke as well as the Classification Working Group for their oversight.
