Freetown, SIERRA LEONE – The Sierra Leone Gymnastics Federation (SLGF) has officially kicked off a four-day Level 1 Aerobic Gymnastics Training Camp, aimed at boosting the skills of both young athletes and local coaches. The event began on Monday, June 9, 2025, at the Sierra Leone Labour Congress Hall on Wallace Johnson Street in Freetown.
Organized with the support of the African Gymnastics Union (UAG), the intensive training camp will run until June 12 and features 27 participants — 21 eager children (boys and girls) and 6 local coaches.
Hungarian gymnastics expert Eva Azloboda is leading the training. Speaking on the opening day, she expressed admiration for the progress shown by the young athletes and applauded the coaches for effectively applying the techniques they have learned.
“The children are showing both physical and mental improvements. I’m proud of the coaches — they’ve really embraced the training methods I introduced, and their knowledge is evolving impressively,” said Azloboda. “The focus and dedication from the young gymnasts are inspiring. What matters most is ensuring gymnastics continues to grow in Sierra Leone.”
Azloboda revealed that the coming days will focus on more complex routines, including choreography — a key component in aerobic gymnastics that requires the seamless combination of arm and leg movements, synchronized with music and teamwork.
“This is one of the most challenging parts of the sport,” she explained. “We’ll be working on how to incorporate new elements based on the updated Olympic code of points. It’s important the coaches and gymnasts understand these changes so they can adapt to international standards.”
She also emphasized the importance of collaboration and building routines that reflect the athletes’ understanding of competition-level performances.
Azloboda concluded by urging the Government of Sierra Leone to provide greater support for the gymnastics community, noting that such investment would create more opportunities for children and help promote Sierra Leone as a tourist destination. She extended her gratitude to Anna Williams, the gymnastics family, and the people of Sierra Leone for their warm hospitality.
SLGF President Anna Williams, in her remarks, thanked the African Gymnastics Union for its continued support in developing gymnastics in the country. She emphasized the importance of having seasoned professionals like Eva Azloboda on the ground, noting this marks her third visit to Sierra Leone.
“Her experience and passion for the sport are helping to shape our coaches and inspire our next generation of gymnasts,” Williams said.
The SLGF training camp stands as another step forward in the federation’s mission to nurture talent and elevate gymnastics in Sierra Leone to new heights. BT/10/6/2025