In 2024, handball coaching education in Asia has seen significant developments, with the International Handball Federation (IHF) and the Asian Handball Federation (AHF) playing pivotal roles in enhancing coaching standards across the continent.
In cooperation with IHF, a transitional plan (2024 to 2025) was developed to qualify the largest possible number of Asian coaches to lead teams in Asian competitions.
The First Phase of the Transitional Period (2024)
The AHF, in cooperation with IHF, has been proactive in organizing Multipliers and coaching courses to elevate the quality of handball coaching in Asia. The first phase of the transitional period (2024) included notable events: One multipliers course, six D-License Coaching Courses, and seven C-License Coaching courses:
IHF Multipliers – Level 2 Course:
- Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
IHF D – License Courses:
- Bangladesh, Kuwait (2), Jordan, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, and the Republic of India
IHF C – License Courses:
- Iraq, Bahrain, Qatar, United Arab Emirates, Kuwait, and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
The Second Phase of the Transitional Period (2025)
The year 2025 is poised to be transformative year for coaching education in Asian handball, with several developments expected to propel our sport to new heights. A combination of continental and international collaborations, and growing focus on coaches’ development will shape the future landscape of handball in Asia.
In 2025, the second half of the transitional period, the AHF will continue to organize licensing courses for coaches more widely in the Asian continent. It will target more East Asian countries to spread and develop the game of handball in those regions. The second phase of the transitional period (2025) will include:
IHF D – License Courses:
- Philippines, Thailand, Sri Lanka, Chinese Taipei, Kuwait, Saudi Arabia, Oman, and Bahrain, etc.
IHF C – License Courses:
- South Korea, Iran, Jordan, Bahrain, Kuwait, and Saudia Arabia,
IHF B – License Courses:
- Kuwait, and Japan
IHF Goalkeeper Level 2 – License Courses:
- Kuwait
These initiatives reflect a concerted effort to enhance the quality and reach of handball coaching education across Asia, fostering the development of the sport at both grassroots and professional levels.