Bermuda has six new International Basketball Federation (FIBA) approved coaches after they successfully completed various coaching development programmes off the Island.

Ryan Brunson, Gavin McKenzie, Ralph Scott, Roderick Spencer, Timothy Trott, Allen Walker jr received their licences on Wednesday night after meeting the required criteria, which automatically makes them members of the World Association of Basketball Coaches (WABC).

Each coach received a licence card and the latest version of the FIBA Official Coaching Software, which is known as the "Sideline Organizer Standard Edition".

The software offers multi feature coaching solutions and includes the video sequences of all drills presented in the FIBA book "Basketball for Young Players".

The comprehensive computer software is designed specifically for the coaches with analysis of the practice sessions and games.

Co-Chairman of International Development for the Bermuda Basketball Association (BBA), Lee Green and Tommy Johnson, were both delighted about the coaches' achievement, noting that it was important to ensure that the Island was on a par with other national federations.

"As we gear ourselves for international competition it is important that we follow the standards set by FIBA," said Green.

"The FIBA Central Board have adopted the regulations governing FIBA approved coaches which was enforced as of January 1, 2007.

"We, the BBA, have an obligation to have a licensing system for our coaches as well as an accreditation system in place that grades our coaches according to the national standards which are set by the BBA."

Johnson added: "Today, we are taking this important step to ensure we are at par with national federations worldwide as it relates to the above regulations.

"It also is important that we provide further development for coaches or direct those that want to further their coaching knowledge who desire to be involved at the national level programmes that we deem suitable for certification.

"The grade has been set by these coaches today based on their professional development and growth as it relates to coaching and we commend them for that.

"We thank them for their valuable collaboration in helping to further develop basketball in Bermuda."