On the 25th September, we join the International Council for Coaching Excellence (ICCE) and celebrate Global Coaches Day. The mission of the ICCE is to lead and support the development of sport coaching globally. World Triathlon would like to acknowledge ICCE Global Coaches Day by profiling some of the incredible international coaches on the circuit.
Introducing DeJean G Tommy, Head Coach and President of Gambia Triathlon Union.
How did you get into coaching Triathlon?
I have always been in Triathlon from a young age, but we just used it as training for Rugby, so in my relocation to Gambia in 2018, I decided to take it on as there was a capacity gap in the federation.
Can you please share a little about where and who you coach?
I’m currently coaching an athlete from The Gambia Team (the Captain) remotely and advise a few athletes in Europe and Africa. Ideally, I’d like to spend more time with athletes and coaches and I’m looking forward to being back on the track daily.
What is the most rewarding part of your job?
The satisfaction on the face of the athlete when they have completed a race. Knowing that I have helped that individual complete another challenge.
What has been a career highlight as a coach?
I’ve had many highlights but the most satisfying one was watching Yankuba Jahateh start in the Africa Triathlon event in Egypt 2021. We had been pushing really hard for months and for him to lead his nation to start a race just topped it all for me.
What is the most challenging part of your job?
Convincing the people of my home country that Triathlon is an awesome event that is worth investing in.
What is the best advice you have ever been given as a coach?
That there is no single answer to solve problems - treat each individual as a special case as abilities differ.
All Triathlon Coaches are a special breed, we have to work a lot harder than other single event coaches to ensure that athletes are ready for the challenges that they face each day let us work together as a Tri family to make sure our athletes always give their best in a sporting manner.
