New body to oversee 2011 IOIG preparation |12 September 2009

The task of the National Sports Technical Committee (NSTC) is to oversee technical aspects of athletes’ preparation for the games.

This includes a performance management system, auditing as well as measuring and monitoring the technical development of sports in Seychelles.

The NSTC will also work closely with technical committees or equivalent in local sports federations and will advise the national sports body on major games preparation and training, including overseas approval.

It is headed by Jean Larue, and the other members are Donald Celestine, Colin Quatre, Wilfred Adrien, Robert Auguste, Phillip Moustache, Ulrick Mathiot, Erna Athanasius and Patrick Comettant.

Launching the group yesterday at Maison Football, Roche Caïman – in the presence of principal secretary for youth, sports and culture Denis Rose, president of the Seychelles Olympic and Commonwealth Games Association (Socga) Antonio Gopal and representatives of local sports federations – Minister for Community Development, Youth, Sports and Culture Vincent Meriton told them that preparing athletes and teams for the 2011 IOIG remains the responsibility of the federations and associations.

He asked them to submit their specific training programme early so the ministry responsible for sports, through the National Sports Council (NSC) and Socga, can help them reach the required standards for the games.

Mr Meriton added that taking into account the working ability and experience of the committee members, he is confident it will do a good job in bringing excellent results during the games.

He also said good preparation of athletes means investing in an adequate and well-prepared training programme as well as in equipment.

To realise this, Mr Meriton said all federations and associations need to work in partnership with the NSC.

 “Our results at the games should reflect the investment we are making,” he added.