By SANDRA MWILA –
ZAMBIAN judoka Mathews Mpunza has been elevated as an instructor by the International Judo Federation (IJF) after successfully completing and passing a six-month course in Budapest, Hungary.
Speaking in an interview yesterday, Mpunza said he completed his physical education course and was now a recognised instructor under the world judo governing body, the IJF.
“The physical education course is a wonderful course and I am grateful to the IJF for giving me an opportunity to advance in my judo carer,” he said.
Mpunza said it was important that a number of coaches in Zambia take up this course because it would increase the number of qualified instructors in the country and consequently improve the sport.
“If Zambian coaches pursue this course, I am positive that we would have a massive number of recognised coaches countrywide and help in the development of judo,” he said.
Mpunza also said he intended to attend another course next year to upgrade to Level Two in Hungary after having successfully completed the Level One.
And Mpunza is in camp preparing for the 2014 African Championships and Commonwealth Games where he will be participating.
“This year I am taking part in many competitions and I am ready to coach my fellow athletes to improve performance at international championships,” he said.
Mpunza said he was ready for the challenge of being both a judoka and an instructor and promised to do his best in everything he would be involved in.
“I am hoping for the best this year and my target is to reap a number of medals for Zambia at various international tournaments that I will be participating,” he said.