Fred Furniss nominated for prestigious coaching award

Fred Furniss has been posthumously nominated for a prestigious coaching award.

Swim England national talent officer Fred, who died on 9 July, is one of three people that have been shortlisted in UK Coaching’s Lifetime Achievement category.

The winners will be announced at a glittering awards ceremony at London’s Honourable Artillery Company on Thursday 29 November.

A judging panel, consisting of experts from the coaching, sport and physical activity sector, deliberated over a record amount of nominations to select 33 finalists across 11 categories, recognising their great coaching achievements.

Also nominated for the Lifetime Achievement Award are canoeing’s Dave Rossetter and Peter Stanley for his work in athletics.

Grant Robins, Swim England’s head of talent – swimming, nominated Fred for the award.

Fitting tribute for such a gentleman

He said: “I felt it was right and apt that Fred was recognised for all his hard work and contribution over the years to coaches and coaching.

“Fred was so passionate about the job he did – he loved it and we loved him.

“The fact he has been shortlisted for this award is a fitting tribute for such a gentleman.”

Fred passed away peacefully on 9 July in the Northern General Hospital. He was a dearly-loved partner to Helen, dad to Paul, Mark and Tom, devoted brother to Kath, Von and twin Bill and a loving grandad, uncle and nephew.

He enjoyed an illustrious 45-year career in swimming and he featured in the British Swimming Coaches Association Hall of Fame. 

Joining Fred’s close family at his standing-room only funeral service were friends, colleagues and  swimming coaches from across the country.