POC encourages NSAs to tap foreign coaches for 2016 Rio buildup

The Philippine Olympic Committee has strongly encouraged national sports associations with athletes set to compete in qualifying tournaments for the 2016 Olympics to hire foreign coaches.

POC president Jose “Peping” Cojuangco Jr. said these NSA could make their request through the Olympic body to increase the chances of their athletes for the Rio de Janeiro Summer Games.

“I told the NSAs to identify the coaches that they need and we will help them get the approval from the PSC (Philippine Sports Commission),” said Cojuangco.

A total of 23 NSAs have come forward to the POC to submit their list of promising athletes who could make it to Rio. The PSC is the sports-financing arm of the government that bankrolls the needs of the national athletes.

“They can hire foreign coaches for three to four months. We have capable local coaches, but there’s also a need to update their knowledge and get valuable tips from foreigners,” said Cojuangco. CFC