Ubabalo Whole-Life Coaching

This sports coaching programme is designed to help coaches act as ‘father figures’ and use sports as a way to mentor participants holistically (spiritually, physically, mentally, etc).

Although many of our programmes address wider systemic issues with men who are already fathers, the biggest impact can be made by reaching the next generation of young men, and also young women who are directly impacted by fatherlessness. Isiseko Imara’s model is based on supporting local coaches as they not only provide sports coaching, but also ongoing mentorship and discipleship to young people growing up without fathers.

Our coaches are trained in the Ubabalo Whole-Life Coaching principles which uses sport as a microcosm of life to instil sound life values during regular coaching sessions on the sports field. It enables the coaches to be effective role models/father-figures/mentors. The coach is thus able to make effective use of the teachable moments during the sport training sessions to impact the young people in all areas of their lives (spiritually, physically, mentally, etc), thus becoming a ‘Whole Life Coach’.

Coaches are trained and supplied with the Whole Life Coaching curriculum, which allows for up to 60 sessions a year. Each sport skill is linked with a corresponding Biblical value which is taught as part of the regular sports training. The values operate as open doors to Bible-based discipleship.

Coaches are expected to not only provide coaching sessions twice a week, but also are required to spend several hours a week connecting with the families of the players, particularly female-headed households such as single mothers or grandmothers. The coaches can provide valuable feedback, advice and support to caregivers as they navigate raising young men and women without a father in the home. This is especially important during times of trouble or crisis, such as the loss of a family member, economic struggles, poor academic performance, alcohol and substance abuse, and conflict at home.

Additionally, coaches often take their teams to participate in tournaments on the weekends. This provides a sense of community and purpose for players. Coaches also connect participants with local churches for ongoing spiritual care and mentorship.

Consistency is the most important aspect in Whole-Life Coaching. The most significant impact is made not from once-off events addressing manhood and fatherhood, but from the relationship between coach and player, as well as between teammates. Often young people have experienced hurt and abandonment from father-figures or family members. Coaches are able to make a difference by building trust and rapport with players and their families through consistency.