Sports Coaching with Kids in Zanzibar

WHY we need you in Zanzibar

kids playing footy

HOW can you help?

WHAT can you do?

Why Involvement Volunteers International?

Students during break time

  PROJECT NAME: SPORTS COACHING 

LOCATION: STONE TOWN

  START DATES: WEEKLY (SAT/SUN ARRIVALS) 

  ACCOMMODATION: VOLUNTEER HOUSE

  MIN DURATION: ONE WEEK

  MIN AGE: 16+

  SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS: N/A

Overview

Sports play a crucial role in human life, holding significance across various aspects. Undoubtedly, engaging in sports aids in achieving fitness goals and maintaining a healthy weight, while also acting as a deterrent against vices like smoking and alcohol consumption, particularly among the youth. Moreover, sports contribute to character development, shaping individuals into advocates for the field. Research indicates that participation in sports enhances cognitive abilities, potentially leading to improved academic performance, especially in children.

Tanzania, a nation that has produced world-class athletes, particularly in athletics, boasts a fervent passion for various sports, including basketball, baseball, cricket, and rugby. The country has invested significantly in sports, making it an integral part of its cultural fabric.

This sports coaching program is tailored for individuals passionate about contributing to a meaningful initiative by imparting the value and power of sports to school children. Participants will encounter students of diverse ages and skill levels eager to learn, play, and be part of a transformative sports coaching journey. The coaching sessions, scheduled at local schools in Stone Town, Tanzania, encompass various sports such as football, basketball, rugby, athletics, and cricket.

Coaches in this program have the opportunity to employ their unique training methods during daily coaching sessions. Beyond refining sports skills, coaches are poised to inspire discipline, resilience, and a positive attitude toward setbacks. The program aims not only to enhance athletic abilities but also to instil valuable life lessons in children, fostering a sense of achievement and motivation.

Participants are encouraged to bring any necessary training equipment, as resources may be limited in some locations. The roles of a sports coach extend beyond skill development and include teaching rules, organizing events, monitoring performance, and providing constructive feedback. Each sport-specific section outlines the basic skills and techniques to be imparted, emphasising the importance of starting at the foundational level for beginners.

Whether coaching football, basketball, cricket, rugby, baseball, or athletics, coaches are integral in shaping the sporting landscape of Stone Town. Football, being the unofficial national sport, requires special attention due to its immense popularity among Tanzanian youth. Similarly, basketball, cricket, rugby, and baseball offer unique challenges and opportunities for skill development, with the goal of contributing to the dreams and aspirations of young athletes in Stone Town.

Ultimately, as a coach in this program, you have the chance to make a lasting impact on the lives of the children, contributing to their physical, mental, and personal development. Your dedication and passion for sports will serve as a guiding light for these aspiring athletes, helping them realise their dreams and fostering a love for sports that extends beyond the field.

Location

Stone Town is an historic and cultural city located on the island of Zanzibar, off the coast of Tanzania. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is renowned for its beautiful architecture, narrow streets, bustling markets, and rich history. It has a unique blend of African, Arab, Indian, and European influences can be seen in its buildings, food, and culture. 

Project Tasks

  • Impart sports skills and potentials to the children of the Stonetown.
  • For children to have a strong foundation of sport skills, methods and techniques.
  • Gain some practical experience for future careers.
  • Create cultural exchange opportunities through our efforts with the locals.
  • Develop your sports skill and become a better coach.

Food & Accommodation

You will be accommodated in a traditional and comfortable guesthouse in Fuoni, about 30 mins drive from Stone Town, with several bedrooms (2-8 per room, single gender), communal bathrooms, a kitchen, and a shared living room.  Bed linen, mosquito protection, and lockable rooms are all provided. No Wi-Fi, although local sim cards can easily be purchased nearby. You will can find a few small local stores that sell snacks, drinks and any basic supplies you might need during your stay. Nearby, there are ATM’s, banks, shops, a local pharmacy, etc.

All meals will be provided at the guesthouse during your stay (3 on weekdays and 2 on weekends). Local meals that are typical of Zanzibari culture will be provided at the accommodation.

All prices in USD
  • 1 Week - $525
  • 2 Weeks - $655
  • 3 Weeks - $955
  • 1 Month - $1275
  • 2 Months - $2495
  • 3 Months - $3675
Uni Campus
What's Included
  • Accommodation
  • Meals
  • Airport Pickup
  • Local Transportation
  • 1 Day Orientation
  • 24/7 In-Country Support
  • Project Materials & Equipment
  • Pre-departure Expert Advice
  • Preperation Tools & Checklists
  • Certificate of Completion

FAQ

If you love working with young people, are energetic and want to inspire the future generation, then yes absolutely! This is perfect for those looking for some experience in teaching sports and wanting to give back at the same time. 

  • Accommodation
  • 3 meals p/day & 2 p/day at weekends
  • Arrival airport transfer (Sat/Sun arrivals)
  • Filtered drinking water, coffee & tea
  • 1 day orientation
  • Daily transportation to project
  • In country 24/7 support & emergency assistance
  • Fundraising support
  • University course credits (where applicable)
  • Certificate of Completion
  • Airfares
  • Travel Insurance
  • Tours, Souvenirs & spending money

Included in the program fees is a half day orientation which starts on the Monday.

08-0830 – Breakfast

0900-1100 – Stone town City Orientation

1100hrs -1130hrs  – Spoken Orientation

12-13 – Lunch

1300hrs – Swahili basic lesson

14hrs 1430- Handling of documents such as code of conduct, house rules, child protection policies and Project meeting.

Programs begin every Monday, and volunteers are required to arrive the day prior, for orientation before the project. Your accommodation on the Sunday is included in the program fees. If arriving on Saturday, there is a fee for the extra night.

A free airport pickup is included when arriving to Abeid Amani Karume International Airport (ZNZ) on Saturday or Sunday between 6AM to 9PM.

If arriving outside of the pickup times, we charge an additional fee for any extra night’s accommodation before your program, and an extra fee for a private transfer.

Alternatively, if arriving early you could wait at the arrival’s terminal for the pickup time, book accommodation at the airport and meet us during the pickup times or make your own way to the project (we will advise on how to do this).

From the airport to the accommodation, it takes 15-30 minutes by car to Stone Town and around 1.5 hours to Nungwi.   

Monday & Tuesday

  • Breakfast
  • Leave Accommodation Center to Transfer to the Placement Areas.
  • Coaching Sessions.
  • Headed Back to the Accommodation Center.
  • Lunch
  • Free Time – Half day Break
  • Coaching Sessions.
  • Headed back to the Accommodation Center.
  • Dinner

Wednesday

  • Breakfast
  • Leave Accommodation Center to Transfer to the Placement Areas.
  • Coaching Sessions.
  • Lunch
  • Free Time – Half day Break
  • Coaching Sessions
  • Headed back to the Accommodation Center
  • Dinner

Thursday

  • Breakfast
  • Leave Accommodation Center to Transfer to the Placement Areas.
  • Coaching Sessions;
  • Headed Back to the Accommodation Center.
  • Lunch
  • Free Time – Half day Break
  • Coaching Sessions
  • Headed back to the Accommodation Center
  • Dinner

Friday

  • Breakfast
  • Leave Accommodation Center to Transfer to the Placement Areas.
  • Coaching Sessions.
  • Lunch
  • Free Time – Half day Break
  • Coaching Sessions
  • Headed back to the Accommodation Center
  • Dinner

***This schedule can be changed and/or amended depending on weather conditions, local conditions and unforeseen circumstances.***

Here are some of the best things to do in Zanzibar…

Stone Town

Stone Town is a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its winding streets, historic buildings, and vibrant atmosphere. Visitors can explore the local markets, visit the old fort, and learn about Zanzibar’s fascinating history.

Relax on the beaches

Zanzibar has some of the most beautiful beaches in the world, with white sand, crystal clear water, and palm trees swaying in the breeze. Some of the best beaches include Nungwi, Kendwa, and Paje.

Go on a spice tour

Zanzibar is known as the Spice Island, and visitors can take a tour of the local spice farms to learn about the different spices grown on the island, including cinnamon, cardamom, and cloves.

Snorkel or dive in the coral reefs

Zanzibar’s coral reefs are home to a stunning array of marine life, including colourful fish, sea turtles, and dolphins. Visitors can go snorkelling or diving to explore these underwater wonders.

Visit the Jozani Forest

The Jozani Forest is a nature reserve known for its unique wildlife, including the rare red colobus monkey. Visitors can take a guided tour of the forest to learn about the local flora and fauna.

Go on a dhow cruise

Dhows are traditional sailing boats used for fishing and transportation in Zanzibar. Visitors can take a sunset cruise on a dhow to enjoy the beautiful scenery and watch the sun dip below the horizon.

Visit the Prison Island

Prison Island is a small island just off the coast of Zanzibar known for its giant tortoises and beautiful beaches. Visitors can take a boat tour to the island to see the tortoises up close and relax on the beach.

Explore the local markets

Zanzibar’s local markets are a colourful and lively place to explore, with vendors selling everything from spices and textiles to handmade crafts and souvenirs. Some of the best markets to visit include Darajani Market in Stone Town and Forodhani Night Market.

Visit the Old Slave Market

Zanzibar was once a major hub of the East African slave trade, and the Old Slave Market in Stone Town is a sombre reminder of this dark history. Visitors can take a guided tour to learn about the slave trade and its impact on Zanzibar.

Additional Requirements

  • A decent level of fitness, energy and patience is required.
  • Older participants are required to have a medical clearance, while participants under 18 might need signed parental consent.
  • At least 18 years old. If you have the permission of a legal guardian or are accompanied by your parents or someone older than you, you may be exempt.
  • Have completed the following vaccines: typhoid, tetanus, Rabies, Malaria, Hepatitis A, and Diphtheria.
  • Tanzania is a country of mixed beliefs, including Christianity and Islam, as well as a number of other conservative traditions and faiths. Therefore, modesty is the ideal, thus, wearing clothes that cover the knee and shoulders for women and shorts, trousers, and t-shirts for men is highly advised.

Additional Equipment

No specific equipment is required for this program but you are highly advised to bring sturdy shoes, comfortable sports clothes and re – hydration or bottled water at all times. You can also fell free to bring any sort of equipment of training aids, that will assist with your coaching experience, as equipment may be limited in some placement areas.

Zanzibar is an archipelago located off the coast of Tanzania in East Africa. It consists of two main islands, Unguja and Pemba, as well as several smaller islands. It has a rich history and culture, shaped by centuries of trade and interaction with Arab, Indian, and European traders and settlers. The islands are known for their beautiful beaches, vibrant markets, and historic Stone Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Zanzibar has a population of around 1.6 million people, with a diverse mix of ethnic and linguistic groups. Swahili is the official language, although English and Arabic are also widely spoken. Zanzibar has a predominantly Muslim population, with a rich tradition of Islamic scholarship and culture. The islands have also been home to a thriving arts and music scene, with influences from across Africa and the Middle East. Despite its rich cultural heritage and natural beauty, Zanzibar faces a number of challenges, including poverty, environmental degradation, and limited access to basic services such as healthcare and education. 

Zanzibar has a tropical climate with two distinct seasons: a wet season from March to May and a dry season from June to October. During the wet season, Zanzibar experiences heavy rainfall and high humidity, while the dry season is characterized by sunny and relatively cool weather. The average temperature in Zanzibar ranges from 25°C to 33°C throughout the year.

Zanzibar is located near the equator, which means that the islands receive strong sunlight year-round. The islands also experience occasional cyclones and tropical storms, particularly during the wet season. 

Zanzibar’s culture is a mix of African, Arab, and Indian influences, which is reflected in the local music, dance, architecture, and cuisine. The islands have a rich history of trade and commerce, with merchants from across the world visiting Zanzibar for its strategic location and abundant resources. As a result, Zanzibar has a diverse population of ethnic and linguistic groups, with Swahili as the official language. Islam is the predominant religion in Zanzibar, and the islands are home to many historic mosques and Islamic schools. 

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