Seychellois coaches explore the future of sports coaching with AI |28 June 2025

The coaches in a family photo with Miss Duval, Socga president Alain Alcindor, and secretary general Fatime Kanté (Photo: Contributed)

Seychellois coaches explore the future of sports coaching with AI

In a bold step toward the future of coaching, a number of Seychellois coaches gathered at the Olympic House on Saturday June 21, to explore how artificial intelligence is transforming the world of sports.

Far from the usual focus on drills and tactics, this workshop placed technology at the centre of conversation and how it can support coaching.

The workshop, part of the Sport Evolve Seychelles (SES) programme, was organised by the National Olympic Academy of Seychelles (NOAS) and supported by the Seychelles Olympic and Commonwealth Games Association (Socga).

It marked a significant milestone in Seychelles’ efforts to align its coaching practices with global technological advancements.

It was facilitated by Laiis, a business which specialises in sports management and innovation in Africa, belonging to Stephanie Duval.

The session aimed to introduce coaches to the evolving role of artificial intelligence (AI) in performance management, injury prevention, and strategy development.

Participants were exposed to cutting-edge examples, including AI systems used to monitor training loads, analyse match performance, and even predict injury risks using data from wearable devices. Coaches learned about innovations set to debut at the 2026 Youth Olympic Games in Dakar, where AI will be used in real-time to track athlete movement and enhance scouting processes.

But beyond the data and technology, it was the human dimension of coaching that drew the most impassioned debate.

During a group discussion, coaches were asked a compelling question: Could AI ever replace the role of a coach? The unanimous response was no.

While AI can support analysis and improve training efficiency, it cannot replicate the empathy, intuition, and emotional support that coaches provide.

The workshop also acknowledged the unique challenges faced by small island nations like Seychelles, including limited funding, infrastructure constraints, and digital literacy gaps.

Yet, there was optimism about the opportunities AI presents, especially in cost-effective solutions like virtual simulations.

These technologies could allow Seychellois athletes to experience high-pressure match environments without the financial burden of overseas training camps.

Ethical concerns were also on the agenda, including questions around data privacy, fair access, and the risk of deepening inequality between athletes with and without access to high-tech tools.

Despite the complexity of the subject matter, the room was abuzz with curiosity and engagement. Coaches asked probing questions, challenged assumptions, and explored how AI could enhance, rather than threaten their work.

As SES continues its mission to elevate the standard of coaching in Seychelles, this workshop served not only as a launchpad for embracing new technologies but also as a call to action to innovate without compromising the soul of sport.

Contributed