National basketball team head coach Cheikh Sarr has shed light on the significance of the scouting camp that the local basketball federation (Ferwaba) is set to organise in the United States to trace young diaspora players who can play for Rwanda.
With its first edition taking place from June 7-10 in Dallas, USA, the event is expected to be an annual exercise, aimed at identifying and selecting talented Rwandan basketball players residing in the USA and Canada.
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Speaking to Times Sport, Sarr said that from a technical perspective, they are seeking solutions for bridging the gaps in the national teams on different levels, and the US camp is one of the ways that are being used.
"Currently, we may have gaps in areas such as player development, talent identification (one of the reasons we are holding a camp in the USA),” he noted.
However, he emphasised the need to look at the bigger picture in terms of doing more to improve coaching methods at all levels especially at school level, providing better training facilities and equipment, implementing structured development programs, and enhancing scouting processes in Rwanda.
The camp will feature two days of action as the youngsters will be trying to impress the coaches.
Sarr insists that though the two days may seem limited for a basketball camp, the coaches can maximize the time through focused and intensive sessions that include skill drills, tactical sessions, scrimmages, physical assessments, and mental conditioning.
"By structuring the camp effectively and utilising experienced coaches and evaluators, we can efficiently identify talented kids and assess their potential. Additionally, we can use pre-camp assessments and follow-up evaluations to ensure that we have a comprehensive understanding of each player's abilities,” he noted.
He pointed out that after the camp, it will be crucial to have a follow-up plan to continue monitoring and developing the identified players.
"Implementing a database to track the progress of players, their growth, achievements, and areas for improvement will be essential for long-term success. This database can help us keep in touch with the players, provide them with resources for development, and facilitate their transition to higher levels of competition,” he said.
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Asked about the measures that will be taken to prevent other countries from taking the Rwandan players that will have been scouted, he said there is a need to establish strong relationships with players and their families.
In addition, he said there is also a need to provide them with opportunities for growth and exposure, as well as creating a supportive environment that encourages loyalty and commitment to Rwanda.