Three swimming coaches named as finalists in UK Coaching Awards 2021

Three swimming coaches have been named as finalists in the prestigious UK Coaching Awards 2021 after what has been a ‘testing year’ for our sports.

Josh Atkins from Wycombe District Swimming Club and Matthew Puddy from Millfield School have been shortlisted for the Talent Development Coach of the Year award.

Kieran Trimmer, also of Wycombe District Swimming Club has been named as one of three finalists for the Young Coach of the Year award.

There are six categories in total with the winners being revealed during an in-person event which is to be held in Leeds on 7 December.

Hundreds of nominations have been narrowed down to a shortlist of three coaches per category, recognising their incredible work throughout the last year.

‘Testament to their hard work’

Lindsay Trimmings, coach development manager at Swim England, said: “It’s fantastic to see swimming coaches being recognised in this way after what has been such a testing year.

“Coaches have had to be incredibly innovative, resilient and supportive in the last year to ensure their athletes remained happy and engaged with their sports.

“The unprecedented nature of the last year has meant that adaptability has been a necessity”, she said.

“We have seen clubs and coaches across the country adopting new and successful processes while their normal training facilities weren’t accessible.

“We have witnessed some incredible work within the aquatics community so for these coaches’ efforts to be spotlighted is a testament to them and all they have done for their clubs and communities.”

‘The bar has been raised’

Speaking on the finalists, UK Coaching CEO Mark Gannon, said: “This year the bar has been raised once again.

“Whilst we are fully aware of the power of coaching across the UK, our brilliant coaching workforce continues to surprise us and push the boundaries to support people and their communities.

“The complications and anxieties caused by the pandemic have affected so many, but coaches have been there every step of the way ready and willing to adapt – not just persevering but excelling.

“Out of the nation’s darkest moments, coaches have stepped up to be leaders and mentors to their participants, when they needed it most – and that is what great coaching is all about.

“Nearly three million people regularly coach across the UK and joining us in December will be the very best of what is a remarkable workforce, who have responded to the call of a nation who for so long were deprived of ‘normal’ physical activity and sport.

“Thank you to all our coaches across the UK, and to our finalists. We are all looking forward to celebrating your achievements in December.”