Foundational Sports Science Certificate Program Concludes at National Coaching Academy

Foundational Sports Science Certificate Program Concludes

National Coaching Academy

Organised by the Bhutan Olympic Committee and held at the National Coaching Academy, the Foundational Sports Science Certificate Program successfully concluded its month-long journey—aimed at equipping aspiring coaches and sports professionals with essential knowledge and practical skills in sports science, health, and athletic performance.

The program concluded with 20 dedicated participants—6 women and 14 men—representing national sports federations and the De-suung Skilling Programme.

The certificate program, initiated by the Bhutan Olympic Committee, was tailored for individuals with a passion for sports, exercise, and health. It aimed to provide participants with foundational knowledge and hands-on skills necessary to pursue careers in these rapidly growing fields. The course prepared them to design exercise programs, assess movement patterns, and enhance performance for both athletes and the general population. Graduates are expected to make meaningful contributions to the advancement of the sports and health sectors in Bhutan and beyond.

The program was led by Dr. Lungten Wangdi from Paro College of Education and Sonam Sonam, a physiotherapist from the Bhutan Football Federation. They were supported by visiting tutors including Norbu Dradul, Coach at the Bhutan Badminton Federation; Tshetrim Yoezer, Assistant Technical Officer and Course Coordinator from the Bhutan Olympic Committee; and Chencho Dorji, Technical Director at the Bhutan Football Federation.

Adding a personal and inspiring note, Tshetrim Yoezer, Course Coordinator and Assistant Technical Officer at BOC, said:

“This course isn’t just about training athletes—it’s about training minds to think critically, act compassionately, and lead fearlessly in the world of sports. Every participant has taken the first bold step toward transforming sports culture in Bhutan. Let this be your foundation, not your finish line.”

Over the course of a month, participants explored a comprehensive curriculum covering key areas such as basic anatomy and physiology, core principles of sports science and coaching, stages of learning and athlete development, coaching techniques, strength and conditioning, sports nutrition, performance psychology, injury prevention and management, sports management and administration, the use of ICT in sports analysis, and training periodization.

The course combined both theoretical instruction and practical application, reinforced by assignments to deepen learning. Participants also engaged in collaborative exchange sessions—both practical and academic—with students from the Diploma in Sports Coaching and Management program at Paro College of Education.

The closing ceremony was attended by officials from the Bhutan Olympic Committee. Certificates of completion were awarded to all graduates by Sonam Karma Tshering, Secretary General of the Bhutan Olympic Committee, and Tshering Zam, Department Head of the Sports Research and Development Division (SRDD).

In his remarks, the Secretary General emphasized the importance of such programs in building the capacity of local coaches and desuups. He encouraged the participants to apply their knowledge in the field, keep learning, and contribute to the growth of sports in Bhutan.

“The sky is the limit,” he said, urging participants to recognize their strengths and weaknesses, build on them with purpose, and explore wider opportunities—including sports entrepreneurship—both within the country and internationally.

The course concluded with an exhibition where participants presented their practical projects, including body biometric assessments, blood pressure checks, nutrition calculations, flexibility and power tests, and other models.