Afghanistan held its first International Level-1 Canoeing Coaching Seminar in Kabul, gathering 15 provincial coaches for a four-day program led by Iranian expert Dr. Ali Jamshidi to develop the country’s water sports capacity.
KABUL | By Sara Amiri
Afghanistan’s first International Level-1 Canoeing Coaching Seminar concluded in Kabul on Tuesday, November 4, 2025, after four days of intensive training for 15 coaches from Kabul, Logar, Maidan Wardak, Balkh, and Bamyan provinces.
The program was organized by the National Federation of Water Sports in cooperation with the General Directorate of Physical Education and Sports and hosted at the Olympic Committee Conference Hall. The seminar aimed to introduce modern canoeing techniques, strengthen technical knowledge, and identify future instructors capable of promoting the sport across Afghanistan.
Dr. Ali Jamshidi, an international canoeing coach from Iran, led the sessions that combined theoretical and practical instruction. “Afghanistan has great potential for water sports,” Jamshidi said. “The country’s rivers and lakes create a natural foundation for canoeing. What’s needed now is continuity in education and regular competitions.”
Participants learned about the history and disciplines of canoeing, boat control, balance, paddling techniques, and online talent evaluation systems. The sessions also covered physical fitness, safety principles, and coaching methodology.
“This was my first time receiving formal canoeing training,” said Mohammad Rafi, a participant from Bamyan. “It gave me the knowledge and confidence to train young athletes in my province.”
In remarks at the closing ceremony, officials of the National Federation of Water Sports said the initiative marked “a turning point” for the sport. Our goal is to build a generation of certified coaches who can expand canoeing beyond Kabul and into every province with access to water resources.
At the end of the seminar, all participants were awarded official certificates of completion.
Canoeing remains a developing sport in Afghanistan, with limited facilities but growing interest among young athletes. In recent years, the National Olympic Committee and the Water Sports Federation have launched several programs to expand training and competitions. The Kabul seminar is part of a broader effort to align Afghanistan’s coaching system with international standards and to introduce water sports as a viable competitive discipline in the country.