Widely regarded as the pinnacle of recognition within the coaching community, the UK Coaching Awards shine a spotlight on the extraordinary contributions of coaches across all levels of sport and physical activity.

This year’s ceremony honoured nine outstanding winners and showcased their transformative impact on individuals, teams, and communities. The event also paid tribute to the lifetime achievement of John Lowther, founder of Kendal Snowsports Club, and the legendary Coaching Chain of cycling legend Lizzie Deignan.

Meanwhile, a truly exceptional moment in coaching was marked by the presentation of the Great Coaching Moment award – a tribute to the vision, leadership, and tactical brilliance that turned sporting dreams into reality. John Mitchell edged out Sarina Wiegman and Andy Farrell to claim the honour for guiding the Red Roses to World Cup glory, capturing the hearts of a nation in the process.

The awards night also saw British Rowing being named the inaugural Green Award winner – supported by Sport England – in recognition of their remarkable environmental efforts.

Throughout the evening, heartfelt tributes from those whose lives have been changed by these coaches highlighted the profound and lasting influence of their work, bringing their legacy to life.

Winners by category

Change a Life Award

(Supported by Sport England)

• Peter Tomlin (Equestrian)

Coach Education and Development Practitioner of the Year

(Supported by British Gymnastics)

• Natasha Britton (Dance) 

Community Coach of the Year (Adults)

(Supported by Badu)

• Georgina Evans-Goodrich (Netball)

Community Coach of the Year (Children and Young People)

(Supported by Play Their Way)

• Kerry Norfolk (Boxing)

High Performance Coach of the Year

(Supported by UK Sport)

• John Hewitt (Cycling)

Inclusive Coaching

(Supported by Inclusive Employers)  

• Darren Rea (Rugby)

Online Coach of the Year

• Sophie Evelyn (Powerlifting)

Talent Development Coach of the Year

• Shoney Morrish (Gymnastics)

Young Coach of the Year

• Alex Wilson (Athletics)

Lifetime Achievement Award

• John Lowther (Skiing)

Green Award

(Supported by Sport England)

• British Rowing

Great Coaching Moment

• John Mitchell – Red Roses Capture the Hearts of the Nation

Coaching Chain Award – Lizzie Deignan’s Coaching Chain

• Joanna Barber
• Phil West
• Ina-Yoko Teutenberg
• Philip Deignan

Reflecting on the award ceremony, UK Coaching’s CEO Mark Gannon said:

“They make an incredible impact on people and their surrounding communities, acting as unsung heroes who always set the right environment, support their growth and success to extreme lengths and inspire the nation to stay healthy and active. 

“From the finalists to the very worthy winners, and on behalf of the whole coaching workforce, it’s an honour to recognise such inspirational individuals who truly deserve this spotlight.

“At UK Coaching, we are committed to supporting coaches just as they support their athletes and participants, offering support, recognition, and encouragement wherever it’s needed. 

“The dedication, passion, and commitment shown by all our nominees, finalists, and winners is simply extraordinary, and we hope everyone takes pride in their phenomenal achievements.”

After the public voted John Mitchell as the recipient of the Great Coaching Moment of the Year, he said: “It was an unreal tournament and experience, and a moment that I’m sure we’ll carry for the rest of our lives.

“Obviously a huge shout-out goes to the way the players performed in the tournament and the way that they connected and captured a nation.

• Get the full picture – Winners, finalists, and highlights from this year's UK Coaching Awards.