Talented and aspiring coaches from around India gathered in the city of Bhopal, for a five-day intensive Canoe Sprint Coaching programme.
Conducted under the direction of the Indian Kayaking and Canoeing Association, the programme was delivered in collaboration with the International Canoe Federation, the Sports Authority of India, and the Department of Sports and Youth Welfare, Government of Madhya Pradesh.
Bringing together approximately 60 to 70 coaches from across various states and institutions, the seminar in March aimed to elevate the standard of coaching in India by integrating international expertise, modern sports science methodologies, and practical training exposure.
Led by experienced ICF Expert Coach Alexandr Nikonorov from the United Kingdom and Zakarias Mahmoudi from Canada, the pair provided invaluable insights into the demands and standards of a professional sporting environment.
They were joined by a distinguished panel of international experts, including technical refinement expert Jean-Michel Prono, alongside Katerina Salandova, Csaba Szanto, and Mongolian grassroots development expert Enkhjargal Jigdijidsuren.
Local experts Dr. Isha Joshi, Sneh Nigam, Abhinandan Gupta, Koustav Bakshi, and Tarun Murugesh also played a key role in contextualising the learning in Bhopal.
The programme focused on upgrading coaching knowledge to international standards, developing structured athlete development, integrating mental conditioning, physiotherapy, and injury prevention.
A strong emphasis was placed on practical coaching capabilities through on-water training.
Delivery of the programme was excavated through classroom-based theoretical sessions, practical demonstrations, interactive discussions and case studies, as well as on-water training sessions at Lower Lake, Bhopal.
“This educational event was truly outstanding, the organisation and facilities were seamless, the equipment was high quality and Lake Bhopal provided ideal paddling conditions,” said Nikonorov.
“I think the event should make a substantial input to the development of sprint canoeing in India – it was a truly invaluable experience.”
A felicitation ceremony formed part of the event, attended by distinguished guests including Honourable Minister Shri Vishwas Sarang, who engaged with participants and highlighted the importance of conducting international seminaries.
Hungarian coach Szanto was honoured with a Lifetime Achievement Award for his outstanding contribution to paddle sport.
At the conclusion of the programme, participants underwent a structured evaluation process, including a multiple-choice examination to assess theoretical understanding.
“The International Coaching Education Programme (ICEP) 2026 stands as a landmark initiative in advancing canoeing and kayaking in India. The collaboration between international experts, Indian faculty, and institutional stakeholders created a robust platform for knowledge exchange and skill enhancement,” said Dr. Sumant Kulshreshtha, Curator and Scientific Convenor.
“The programme is expected to have a long-term impact on coaching standards, athlete performance, and India’s global competitiveness in canoeing and kayaking.
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