North coaches collect honours at Sportscotland awards
It's congratulations to Kieran Brown and Patty Coghill for their work in helping dedicate time and effort to coaching youngsters.
The prestigious sportscotland coaching, officiating and volunteer awards 2016 saw Highland sport stalwarts among the winners in Glasgow, with thanks for their work in supporting and developing sport in Scotland.
19-year-old Kieran Brown from Alness was acknowledged for his commitment and passion in coaching young people in gymnastics across the country.
Through the ‘Street Gym’ programme, Kieran developed a safe environment for teenagers to enjoy the sport. He's responsible for coaching boys and girls aged between 8 and 18, and is in high demand to deliver sessions to schools, youth groups and leisure clubs across the Highlands.
Kieran said: “I originally started doing work experience at Fyrish Gymnastic Club and I was delighted when my coach asked me if I wanted to get involved on a permanent basis. The kids are all really great. I never feel like I’m coaching them, it feels like I am coming in to help friends. My dream is for to our ‘Street Gym’ to become a national class, and for it to be recognised all over Scotland. I’m delighted to be named as the winner of the sportscotland ‘Young Person’s Coach of the Year Award’.”
Kieran was nominated by club coach, Claire Bath. She said: “Without Kieran, we couldn't run the classes in the gym or in the local schools. His relationship with our younger members is perfect - he is seen as the 'cool' coach and someone they can relate to so easily. Kieran is a perfect example of self-belief and commitment. He realises the impact he can make and has reinvigorated our boys gymnastic team, going from around 20 boys to now over 50 attending each week. I’m very proud of Kieran and all that he has achieved.”
Also winning was Patty Coghill - volunteer of the year - awarded the accolade for her 20 years commitment to running Wick Juniors badminton club. The junior club has 120 members between the ages 9 to 15 with a total of eight coaches.
Patty's responsible for every aspect of the club from booking venues, arranging transport and organising competitions. Her passion and motivation to succeed has inspired a full team of volunteers to work for her, giving up every weekend in all weather conditions to support her and the team.
Commenting on her success, Patty said: “I started volunteering with the club when I was 19. The lady who coached me asked if I would come along and help, and that’s how I got involved"
“As a coach I think it’s important to engage with all children, regardless of their ability, and that’s where I believe our club succeeds. I want to encourage everyone to come along and be the best player that they can be, but the main thing is that they all enjoy it at the same time, and I believe that they do.
“I was totally surprised when I was selected as the winner of the sportscotland ‘Volunteer of the Year Award’. This is for everyone at the club, I wouldn’t be where I am today without them all standing behind me.”
Stewart Harris, Chief Executive of sportscotland, said: “Every year across the country, thousands of dedicated volunteers devote their time, knowledge and skills to help others achieve their sporting goals. It’s an honour that sportscotland has the opportunity to thank them for all that they’re doing to ensure Scotland’s sporting generation receives unrivalled coaching to enable them to compete at world class level.
“At sportscotland we are implementing a world-class sporting system at every level in Scotland and we can only do so with the support of the many dedicated coaches, officials and volunteers like those recognised this evening.
“I hope that many more people are inspired by their stories and recognise the opportunities that exist to get involved in sport at every level from volunteering at your local club or school to coaching or officiating on the world stage.”
At the event coaches, officials and volunteers involved in swimming, diving, football, netball, tennis, gymnastics and badminton were recognised for the many hours they dedicate to helping others compete at the best level they can.
The winners each received a trophy, certificate and £300 towards their professional or coaching development.