As we look back on UK Coaching Week we’d like to take this opportunity to thank all of the coaches out there on the tracks, trails, roads and parks. The sport truly wouldn’t be what it is today without each and every one of you showing up week in week out for the development of others. From holding the bikes as people turn their first pedal, to giving those extra words of advice and encouragement to an athlete competing at a World Championships.
The significance that you have in developing not only riders, but the people beyond the bikes is not to be underestimated.
This week we’ve spent a bit of time highlighting great stories and individuals that are out there in the Scottish Cycling coaching community and if we want the sport to grow and develop, we even need more of these great quality coaches coming through.
Some highlights of the week…
Pete Bentley, Community Coach of the Year, spoke about how one of the more rewarding things about coaching is watching riders confidence grow and playing a part in nurturing that.
National Mountain Bike Coach, Paul Newnham highlighted the excitement of working as a coach with there always being something to look at. Whether it’s the simple stuff or tiny details there’s a great deal of satisfaction is seeing riders progress and develop.
Sarah Tait and dad Paul of the Clydesdale Colts. At just 14, Sarah was the youngest coach that we interviewed this week, we thought that in itself was inspiring enough. Sarah then went on to speak about the club running a female only coaching sessions during the winter months to create a comfortable and approachable environment to get more women and girls into the sport. Incredible.
We also caught up with Falkirk Junior Bike Club coach, Mitchell McCole, having come through the youth programme himself. Mitchell (18) highlighted the importance of having more young coaches in clubs and believes it can inspire the next generation of riders even more.
If you’ve been inspired by any of the stories this week and want to up your coaching game or get involved in coaching cycling for the first time, then we might just have the thing for you. With a recent revamp of British Cycling Coaching Framework, there has never been a more opportune time to get involved in British Cycling’s ‘Introduction to Coaching’ Courses. These courses provide a platform to not only enhance your knowledge and skills in individual disciplines, but they also aim to focus on who you coach, what you coach, and how you coach and you will be encouraged to discover what works best for you and for the riders you coach. Ignite the spark of potential in others, shape futures, and witness the transformative power of good quality coaching unfold before your eyes.
Check out all live courses here – Introduction to Coaching (Activity Coach) (britishcycling.org.uk)
To established coaches – Stay tuned for more learning opportunities coming to you over the next month!
Let’s connect, learn, inspire and grow together for the benefit of cycling across Scotland.