Fifteen local coaches received their International Basketball Federation (FIBA) certification over the weekend after sessions with top instructor Nelson Isley.

After a week of intensive classroom theory and practical instruction from Isley, Bermuda can now boast 21 certified coaches, with the Island having had six before last weekend.

Chris Crumpler, Freida Dill, Rickey Watts, Tashae Thompson, Joshua Nesbitt, Irene Pimentel, Jahmal Scott, Lexi Tatem, Jeremy Hassell, Stephanie Castro, Tommy Johnson, Dianne Liard, Gregory Dean, Richard North and Derrick Hendrickson all received their FIBA certification after successfully completing and passing the FIBA Level I and II coursework.

Former Under-18 national select basketball coach Crumpler thanked Bermuda Basketball Association (BBA) for providing an opportunity for individuals to obtain their certification.

"This coaching clinic demonstrates the BBA's commitment to enhancing basketball in Bermuda," said Crumpler. "The information learned in this course will not only make us better coaches, mentors and leaders but also aid in the development of our young players in Bermuda and their basketball skills."

The BBA's first vice-president and International Development Chairman, Greg Todd, was also delighted about the coaches' achievement. "This is great news for Bermuda and our association," said Todd. "Through this coaching clinic we have increased our pool of FIBA coaches, some of whom we expect to have an immediate impact on developing players in the middle and senior schools."