Myanmar: Passion and Persistence are Coach Joe’s Mantra for Wheelchair Basketballers
2nd Wheelchair Basketball Workshop with Myanmar Paralympic Sports Federation, Yangon
"The starting point for anything you do is the passion in your heart. It's my job to bring this passion out on the court, and on the sidelines," said Joseph Higgins, or Coach Joe as he is more fondly known.
Video: ICRC / Thang Khan Sian Khai
Former head coach of the Canadian and Hong Kong men's national teams recently spent a week in Yangon with the ICRC and the Myanmar Paralympic Sports Federation (MPSF). The week-long workshop was part of ICRC's extended Physical Rehabilitation Program in the country to encourage inclusion and help change the perception surrounding people living with disabilities.
Twenty-one participants from physical rehabilitation centres in Myitkyina, Kyaing Tong and Hpa An, as well as from MPSF gathered in Yangon for five days of theoretical and practical training. They worked hard during the drills to improve their fitness as well their passing, defending and shooting skills. We met with some members of the team and were inspired by their courage and outlook.
It’s not just physical training. Participants learn theory and techniques before training begins.
Training was intense, from 8am to 5pm, despite tears and sweat.
"They care and they love the sport, my job is to bring that passion out on the court," said Joe Higgins, the international coach from Canada.
