National rugby player and secondary school teacher Electra Marcelle is eager to expand her impact on sports in Saint Lucia. The former track and field athlete has been selected for the Applied Sport Sciences for Olympic Solidarity Scholarship Coaches programme, organised by PAISAC (Programme d’Appui International au Sport Africain et des Caraïbes).
Nominated by the Saint Lucia Olympic Committee through the Saint Lucia Rugby Football Union (SLRFU), Marcelle successfully completed phase one of the programme, an intensive distance learning/e-Learning module, between November and December 2024.
Now, she is set to begin phase II, a three-week in-person training module in Montreal, Canada. The Level II-certified rugby coach and national player departed Saint Lucia this week and will remain in Canada until June 6. This segment of the programme will provide hands-on training in sports science methodologies and advanced coaching techniques.
Marcelle brings a wealth of experience and passion to the initiative. As a dedicated educator at Corinth Secondary School, she balances teaching with her athletic career, embodying the leadership qualities PAISAC aims to foster. In an interview with St Lucia Times, Marcelle shared her enthusiasm for the opportunity.
“I’m really excited about this course because I’m expecting it to seriously boost my understanding and hands-on skills in applied sports science,” Marcelle said. “My goal is to enhance my coaching techniques and athlete development strategies. The mix of online learning and getting my hands dirty with practical training sounds perfect for picking up some advanced techniques. I’m hoping these new methods will allow me to contribute more effectively to the growth of rugby and sports education in Saint Lucia.
“It also feels like a fantastic opportunity to connect with other coaches from across Africa and the Caribbean. I’m looking forward to swapping stories and building a network with people who are just as passionate about pushing sports forward in our part of the world. Ultimately, I’m hoping this programme will give me the confidence and fresh ideas to become a more independent and creative coach. I want to build something that lasts in my community and inspires the next generation of athletes.”
The SLRFU has congratulated Marcelle on her achievement, expressing confidence that her participation will enhance her professional growth and enable her to make even greater contributions to Saint Lucian sport.
