LNOC President Challenges Tennis Training Beneficiaries to Drive Sports Development Across Liberia

MONROVIA — The Liberia National Olympic Committee (LNOC) has challenged beneficiaries of the recently concluded 12-day Coaching and Refereeing Beginner and Intermediate Course to use their newly acquired knowledge to transform the country’s sports industry.

Speaking on Saturday, October 31, 2026, at the closing ceremony of the Olympic Solidarity-funded training program, LNOC President Sylvester Rennie emphasized that capacity-building platforms are essential for local technicians to impact others and drive grassroots sports development.

Rennie noted that LNOC observations during the practical sessions confirmed that high-level technical materials were delivered to participants tools he said would elevate overall performance and results if consistently applied.

“This training was intended to brush up those who have had similar training in the past and serve as a foundation for new coaches who had no prior training,” Rennie said. “We want to pose this challenge to you: go out there and train young coaches and athletes.”

He reiterated the LNOC’s commitment to securing similar training opportunities for other sporting federations, expressing gratitude to Olympic Solidarity for supporting the initiative.

Addressing the issue of talent drain in local sports administration, Rennie described refresher courses for players, coaches,and key stakeholders as critical to institutional growth.

“Do not keep the knowledge to yourselves,” he urged. “Others must benefit, and that is the best way you can impact them for the good of the game.”

The course expert, Nigerian coach Akinloye Rotimi, reminded participants that the final assessment was not the true test of their abilities. He noted that while the closing examinations fulfilled official requirements, their real evaluation lies in daily practice and execution.

Rotimi urged the coaches to raise the profile of Liberian tennis by adopting modern game tactics and mentoring athletes capable of competing internationally.

“You completed the course, but it has not really ended,” Rotimi stated. “Your evaluation actually begins now. How you nurture your athletes and yourself as a coach to impact tennis in your community and the world at large is your true test.”

He praised the LNOC and the Liberia Tennis Federation (LTF) for collaborating with international partners to bring the crucial training to Liberia for the first time in over 18 years.

The 12-day program launched on Tuesday, October 20, 2026, at the Samuel Kanyon Doe Sports Complex in Paynesville brought together coaches, referees, desk officers, and technical personnel to build capacity for regional sports development.

At the launch, the LNOC leadership stated that capacity building has remained a priority since taking office in 2025.Rennie explained that Olympic Solidarity approved funding for the course to help align Liberian coaches with continental standards through professional mentorship and updated technical knowledge.

Rennie added that while the committee originally planned to host eight courses across various disciplines this year, administrative delays between certain federations and the LNOC slowed implementation.