THE efforts of two local coaches have been recognised at Live Argyll’s 2020 Volunteer Sports Awards.
Stewart Maule of Rhu Amateurs Football Club and Anne MacGregor of Loch Lomond Hockey Club were named as Young Person’s Coach of the Year and Coach of the Year respectively.
The awards, which run in partnership with sportscotland, aim to celebrate and reward the success and achievements of coaches and volunteers in Argyll and Bute school and community sport clubs.
Anne has been involved with Loch Lomond since Helensburgh merged with Vale of Leven in 2000 and has now taken up a coaching role as well as continuing to play.
READ MORE: LiveArgyll sport awards: Helensburgh coaches triumph
The 66-year-old, who was part of the Scotland over-60s team that won bronze at the European Championships last year, works tirelessly behind the scenes by organising training drills and matches, and gave up her own playing spot to benefit the young goalkeepers coming through the ranks.
It’s a sign that MacGregor puts the interests of the club ahead of her personal gain.
Speaking to the Advertiser she said: “I was totally surprised after being nominated by the club president.
“I do it because I enjoy it and if it’s a benefit to others then great.
“Our young goalkeepers needed the match time – they can train until they are blue in the face but they need to be out on the pitch.
“I do still play and I play for Scotland Masters. I still enjoy it.”
READ MORE: Full match report from Rhu Amateur's sparkling start to new season
Much like sports clubs across the country, LLHC have been out of action since March but have since returned to training in the last few weeks which MacGregor admits she is enjoying despite the restrictions.
She continued: “It’s been a nightmare not playing but it’s great to be back and seeing people, although every now and then you do have to shout ‘two metres!’.”
Anne’s nomination came from club president Rosie McColgan, who said: “Anne has worked tirelessly as a coach engaging with young and old keeping abreast of new changes, rules and regulations. She has taken the club from strength to strength.
“The club feel Anne truly deserves this award as she has never been recognised for all of those years she has given to our club and all of the sacrifices she has made to bring sport to the local area.”
For reaction from Volunteer Coach of the Year Stewart Maule, make sure you buy next week’s edition of the Advertiser - out on Thursday, October 22.
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