NSMQ: A Short Coaching Story

Once upon a time in 2020, Odadee Etse Sikanku called me up and wanted to know if I could coach the Presec team for this year's National Science and Maths Quiz.

"No problem!" I said.

So I went down to the school (for the first time ever!) to observe the team during practice sessions. 

My impressions?

They knew their science and maths alright. I also knew that often it's how you say what you know that gives you the edge.

So I held a couple of sessions with them.and shared some tips on public speaking and self-confidence such as: 

• Hold the mic like an ice-cream cone🍦 

• Smile🙂 even when you feel anxious

• Look into the eyes of the quiz mistress when answering a question 

• Speak slowly and clearly

I wasn't surprised Presec won the competition. They were easily the best team and the public loved them. What I did not expect was an invitation to this year's speech and prize giving day. There they surprised me with a Certificate of Appreciation. 

Thanks Odadee Etse, thanks Presec and congratulations to this year's NSMQ winners. I'm proud to have been part of the historic 6th win!

P.S. The raps on this certificate eh? 😃😃