Reverend Father Linus Adeke from Gboko Diocese, currently working with the Catholic Police Chaplaincy in Lagos, recently completed the basic coaching course at the National Institute for Sports (NIS). He shares his enriching experience over the past three months and his aspirations in the field of sports coaching.
Father Linus describes his time at NIS as both good and encouraging. “The experiences were quite good and encouraging. It was a privilege to mingle with different people, learn about their backgrounds, cultures, and differences,” he told Sports247. He appreciated the discipline required to balance his vocation with the rigorous demands of the coaching course.
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Growing up as a known footballer, returning to his roots through this coaching course was particularly meaningful for Father Linus. “Coming back to where people originally knew me as a footballer was quite an interesting session. By the grace of God, I think I’ve really gotten what I wanted.”
Father Linus found the practical sessions, especially those in the football department, to be the most important moments of his training. “The most important moment had to do with my practicals, particularly with the football department. The lecturer did justice to that, and I really enjoyed it. Now, I can say I’m a certified person who has learned the basics of football.”
He emphasized that he now understands the mission and objectives of football coaching, something he previously only heard about from other coaches. “I never knew the vision and mission of football coaching. But now, I’ve come to know the mission and the objectives of the basics of football.”
Father Linus praised the quality of education and instruction at NIS. “The lecturers are qualified and gave out their best, which really impacted us. NIS has done justice to this basic coaching course.”
Looking ahead, Father Linus plans to further his education in sports coaching. “By next year, I will continue with the management course and other advanced courses to gain more knowledge. I’ve just begun the race and want to go into the main business of football coaching to give back to society.”
Father Linus encourages other grassroots coaches and those interested in sports coaching to pursue courses at NIS. “If they really want the job and like it, it is good for them to come and upgrade themselves. Not even only in NIS, but they should also attend other programs to update themselves because football tactics are upgraded every day.”
He stresses the importance of continuous learning and professional development. “I encourage them to come, get the basics, and if possible, further their education to know much more about sports in general.”
Reverend Father Linus Adeke’s journey reflects the harmonious blend of faith and fitness, demonstrating how dedication to one’s passion can coexist with a commitment to spiritual and community service. His future endeavors in sports coaching promise to bring valuable insights and improvements to grassroots football and beyond.
