Athletics Coach, Yaya Explains journeys Toward Brume's Olympic Medal

 

Athletics coach, Kayode Yaya has described guiding Long jumper, Ese Brume to an Olympic Games medal as the crowning moment of his career as a coach and he has vowed to continue to produce and mentor athletes to stardom.

Brume won a bronze medal in the Long jump event of the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games and Yaya told journalists that that feat would remain special and evergreen to him.

“It’s like the icing on the cake. Everyone looks forward to getting an Olympic medal. It was remarkable, and I feel truly blessed," Yaya said.

Yaya’s love for athletics was ignited while watching the Los Angeles 1984 and Seoul 1988 Olympic Games and the then young man said he wanted to make a career out of the sport as an athlete but since the opportunity didn't come as he expected he has switched to coaching to help breed collections of athletes who will be globally recognised.

“I thought I would love to race like that and be the fastest man in the world,” he recalls. 

His natural talent quickly set him apart, earning recognition even in his early physical education classes. Teachers marveled at his speed, and he consistently outpaced his peers, eventually running with older, more experienced athletes.  

Though initially ambivalent about coaching, Yaya found purpose in mentoring young athletes. 

“I was motivated first by the kids I was encouraging and, second, by my unfulfilled dream of becoming an Olympian. I vowed to produce Olympians,” he stated.

“I strive to create a positive, inclusive culture that prepares athletes for success in sports and beyond. It’s about building confidence, mental resilience, teamwork, and national pride, while embracing sportsmanship and fair play.

“We must correctly appropriate things to avoid contempt. Orderliness is key to remaining productive. ‘First things first’ has always been our slogan,” he explained. 

Beyond Brume, Yaya has nurtured several athletes who have shone on the national stage, including Tega Odele, Omeiza Akerele, Prestina Ochonogor, and Hope Ideh, among others. He also mentors athletes from other countries, reflecting his global impact.  

“My most treasured moments are seeing lives being imparted to cause impact. I love seeing people excel to the glory of God and the benefit of mankind.” 

Yaya believes in transformation over mere change. 

“Always get to know a better version of yourself. Condition yourself to match the mental picture of your dream, regardless of challenges," He advises. 

Yaya the most rewarding moments are seeing his athletes excel on the global stage. Yet, the path hasn’t been without challenges. His biggest hurdle is imparting the intricate knowledge of the sport to athletes. “It’s like turning every stumbling block into a stepping stone—a setup for a step up to a rise up!”* he explains.  

His faith plays a pivotal role in his journey. “I believe in transformation. Spend all your energy developing yourself to match the mental picture of your dream. Make it an art that becomes second nature.”

  

For Yaya, the well-being of his athletes is non-negotiable. 

“Their happiness is mine as well. No pressure anywhere!” he asserts