Go Sports Volunteer Coach of the Year

Nominations

Matt Roberts American Football: Matt Roberts has been instrumental in turning around the fortunes of Colchester Gladiators American Football Club. Taking over the club after the 2007 season, Matt's first season in 2008 saw the club achieve a 7-3 record and reach the national playoffs. In 2009, the club broke many long standing records with a nigh on perfect league record, averaging over 47 points per game whilst conceding only six. After demolishing two playoff opponents, the Gladiators narrowly missed out on winning the National Division Two titled, but secured promotion by virtue of being Southern Champions. Such successes are all down to Matt's solid coaching team, his planned and effective training sessions, and his constant motivation of the team encouraging them to be 'the best they can be'. Matt's successes are not only confined to the playing field. He recently received the prestigious BAFCA Coach of the Year award at their annual convention – testament to his excellent coaching, superb leadership and passion for the game.

Mick Ellis Judo: Mick has been coaching Judo for thirty years. Described as 'the driving force behind Harlow Judo Club', Mick is a great coach for all level of Judo from grassroots all the way up to National and International Competition. Mick's coaching is focused on inclusiveness, he has established a Pan Disability Judo Class one night a week and has organised demonstrations at Disablity Sport Taster Days. Mick recognises talent and helps to develop it whether through training Level 2 and 3 coaches or coaching individuals to reach podium places. Mick's dedication to Judo has led him to work towards securing a community building to allow for a permanent Dojo in Harlow, helping to provide a lasting legacy for Judo to develop and flourish.

Robert Hardy Tennis: Described as encouraging and supportive, Rob Hardy has proved to be an inspiration to those he coaches. Rob has been with Braintree Tennis Club for eight years during which time he has worked tirelessly to develop his and the club's coaching programme. Proactivity is at the heart of Rob's coaching. Organising and coaching over 150 young people at the club each week, Rob has established close links with nine local schools. During the holidays, he ran six weeks of Summer School for a total of 340 youngsters. An active member of both the Club's Management Committee and Junior Club Committee, Rob has done much to enhance the profile of the Club whilst promoting tennis in the community. Rob is held in high esteem by club members, his peers and the parents of the children he coaches.