Coach of the Year 2008

The 2008 Coach of the Year awards took place on Wednesday 26th November 2008 at a glitzy ceremony in the Welsh Institute of Sport, Cardiff.

2008 has arguably been one of the most successful years in sport. From Six Nations Grand Slam victory to triumphs at the Beijing Olympic and Paralympic Games, coaches have all played a vital role.

Since the very first ceremony in 1986, the Sports Council for Wales has been on the lookout for local heroes who continue to make an invaluable impact on the ground in Welsh communities.

Coaching, leadership, teaching and instruction across the sporting arena can make a significant contribution to health, social inclusion, educational attainment and national pride.

Last year’s winner of the prestigious Coach of the Year award was Tim Hall, High Performance Manager of the Welsh Yachting Association.

In previous years, the main accolade has been awarded to City of Cardiff Swimming Club’s head coach Dave Haller. Other recipients include former Wales International rugby coach Mike Ruddock and former Wales national cycling coach Shane Sutton.

The awards also demonstrate that coaches within our communities are just as important as those who work with elite athletes. It is their tireless work and enthusiasm that encourages youngsters into sport, keeps them motivated and shapes them into the stars of the future by introducing the core values of hard work, accountability, belief and most of all – enjoyment of sport.

From female coaches, volunteer coaches and coaches to disabled people, the ceremony will unveil the work going on across the length and breadth of Wales and reward those who continue in their unflagging quests to inspire success at all levels - be it in the local park or on the international stage.

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