NOCZ President Foloko Commends Coen Teulings for Continued Support of Youth Sports

National Olympic Committee of Zambia (NOCZ) President Alfred Foloko has commended Coen Teulings, Chairman of Merifin Capital in Belgium, for his long-standing commitment to developing youth sport at the OYDC Zambia – Sports Development Centre.

In a speech read on his behalf by NOCZ Treasurer Victor Banda during the 2025 Teulings Youth Sports Challenge grand finale held on 29 November, Foloko described Teulings’ support since 2011 as “immense” and instrumental in producing athletes who have progressed from grassroots programmes to representing Zambia at major global events, including the Olympic Games and the Commonwealth Games.

Hans Bertels the reprsentative of Coen Teulings shaking hands with NOCZ Treasurer Victor Banda.

Foloko noted that the continued investment in young athletes has been motivating and has significantly contributed to nurturing talent from early stages to the elite competition level.

Representing Coen Teulings at the event, Hans Bertels announced that support for the OYDC Zambia – Sports Development Centre will continue into 2026, a development warmly welcomed by the sporting fraternity.

The grand finale was officiated by the Ministry of Youth, Sport and Arts Acting Director of Sport, Gibson Muyaule, who stood in for Minister Elvis Nkandu, MP.

Muyaule reaffirmed the government’s appreciation for individuals like Coen Teulings who contribute financially to sports development at the grassroots level.

He further noted that the extension of this support increases Zambia’s prospects of producing more talented young athletes capable of representing the nation at upcoming events such as the Dakar 2026 Youth Olympic Games and the Glasgow 2026 Commonwealth Games.

Outstanding athletes from the 2025 season were honoured with trophies and medals for their exceptional performances.