A joint programme of the United States Olympic and Paralympic Committee, the University of Delaware, and Olympic Solidarity, the ICECP provides coaches with enhanced coaching and leadership skills and the latest coaching principles, enabling them to develop sport in their respective countries. The ICECP has reached a total of 491 participants from 130 nations and 42 sports since its inception in 2008
This year, thirty-four coaches from 33 nations and 18 sports received diplomas from the IOC President, Mr Thomas Bach. A two-time world medallist (2009, 2013) and Olympic bronze medallist in Rio De Janeiro, Dirk Van Tichelt switched from his professional sporting career to coaching after he retired from competition.
The programme, conducted in partnership with the Olympic Solidarity Entourage Unit headed by Mr Yassine Yousfi, aims to assist active coaches in developing proficiency in the areas of sport science, talent identification, athlete development, safe sport, coaching education, coaching management, and grassroots sport development. The intended outcome is for ICECP participants to return to their countries, serve as both coaches and experts within their respective sports, and become foundation builders for future coaches and athletes while spreading the Olympic and Paralympic spirit.
Congratulations to Dirk Van Tichelt who will continue to play a prominent role in the development of the sport in the years to come.