UK Coaching has re-opened its national awards to mark the incredible innovations and achievements of great coaches who have inspired and motivated the nation to keep moving, delivering sport and physical activity sessions during the coronavirus lockdowns.
Through UK Coaching Hero, the British public can nominate coaches who implemented great coaching ideas and made considerable differences to people’s mental and physical well-being despite the adversity that faced the nation.Nominations are open until May 17, 2021.
UK Coaching is looking for nominations of coaches who have:
- connected people utilising sport and physical activity, and had a positive impact on people’s well-being.
- created an environment where people felt empowered and motivated either to get active or to stay active during the COVID-19 lockdowns.
- made a difference and had an impact on others (e.g. family member, friend, participant).
Emma Atkins, UK Coaching’s Director of Coaching, said: “We have been overwhelmed by the actions of many great coaches from across the nation, who have persevered and re-thought coaching techniques to deliver digital and one-to-one training, whilst they too have struggled with the parameters of this third lockdown.
“There has been an immense strain on the physical and mental health of the nation, with winter months and financial constraints playing a huge part. Yet, throughout the pandemic, coaches have found innovative, safe and legal ways to deliver sport and physical activity sessions and it is not an exaggeration to state that they have been a constant source of hope for many people during these isolating times. Coaching heroes is our opportunity to give back to the coaches that have enriched our lives in lockdown – when we needed them most.”
Originally set to take place last year, UK Coaching decided to extend its awards initiative into 2021 as the on-going pandemic meant restrictive measures remained in place across the country. Entries submitted during the first nomination period in 2020 have been received and will be included in the shortlisting process.
During this year’s UK Coaching Week, which is being held from June 7-13, members of the public will be able to vote for their favourite coach from a shortlist of finalists. The winners will be announced at a ceremony to be held in September.
For more information and details on how to nominate, visit UK Coaching’s awards platform.