CEV School Project workshop in Kamnik focuses on neuroscience in sport

On Sunday, a CEV School Project workshop took place at Toma Brejca Elementary School in Kamnik, thereby bringing together 12 coaches and 42 children for an engaging session focussed on the role of neuroscience in sports. 

The workshop was inspired by Mr Ranko Rajović’s lecture at the 2024 CEV Coaches Convention in Sofia and was designed to provide both theoretical and practical insights into working with young athletes.

The workshop, conducted by Katarina Vraber from OK Kamnik and Brina Stropnik from ŽOK Šentvid, was structured into two parts. It began with a one-hour theoretical session, where participants explored the importance of movement for children, its benefits for cognitive development, and the connection between Volleyball and brain function. Several exercises and games based on cognitive stimulation were introduced – some of which were later presented in the practical session as well.

The second part of the workshop focused on the role of youth coaches. Discussions covered the key qualities of a coach working with young athletes and how training sessions should be structured. A model training session was demonstrated.

Renowned Slovenian youth coach Katarina Vraber reflected on her experience, saying, “For the first time, I had the opportunity to step into the role of a lecturer. It was a rewarding experience, as I not only shared key takeaways from the Sofia workshops but also incorporated some of my personal experiences. However, with only 2.5 hours available, there was much more I wished to convey! At the same time, I gained a newfound appreciation for the effort required in preparing and delivering such sessions. My respect goes out to all those who tirelessly pass on their knowledge to us.” 

To conclude the session, participants gathered for an informal discussion, sharing their experiences and addressing challenges, among which the issue of large numbers of children training in small spaces stood out, as well as limited access to equipment and a lack of coaches.

The next such workshop will be delivered by Tadej Stanič on February 13 at OŠ Livade in Izola.