Eleven times Spanish La Liga champions and former UEFA Cup Winners’ Cup kings Atlético de Madrid will train 13 Rwandan youth coaches.
The course, through Visit Rwanda initiative is part of a partnership existing between the Spanish La Liga club and Rwanda Development Board (RDB) which, aims to strengthen the technical and tactical skills of youth coaches across the country.
The selected group comprises 10 men and three women, chosen from a pool of 43 applicants following a rigorous evaluation process. The assessment focused on their understanding of football principles, technical knowledge and overall coaching philosophy.
Over the course of the programme, participants will complete online modules designed to deepen their grasp of modern football methodology.
While the coaches will follow most of the programme online, they will periodically travel to Madrid for hands-on training sessions at the Academia Atlético de Madrid. Upon completion, they will receive official certification or recognition.
Carlos Cano, the Sports Coordinator of Atlético de Madrid’s International Department, explained that participants will receive structured technical support and season-long mentorship based on the renowned Academia Atlético de Madrid methodology, one of Europe’s most respected football development systems.
“We are focused on capacity building, starting with coaches before reaching the athletes. We believe this course will not only enhance their knowledge but also open doors for them to pursue careers beyond the African continent,” Cano said.
Rwanda Football Federation (FERWAFA) President Fabrice Shema described the initiative as a major step forward for grassroots football development in Rwanda.
“The only way to achieve sustainable progress in grassroots football is by ensuring our coaches have the right calibre to deliver quality knowledge. This is our starting point,” Shema noted.
