Coach of the Year Award for Roger

The sporting success of local players, coaches and volunteers was celebrated at the annual Spelthorne Sports Awards at Shepperton Studios on Tuesday 9th October. Awards were presented to recognise sporting stars for their effort and dedication to sport in Spelthorne. The guest speaker for the evening was Olympic rowing silver medallist, Debbie Flood.

We are proud to say that in the Category of Active Surrey Coach of the Year, our very own Head Coach Roger White was announced as this year’s winner.

The following is what committee member Mary Claremont wrote in nominating Roger for this award:

“Roger has inspired many new people to play tennis by his by his consistent and professional approach to coaching all players regardless of age and ability. He makes it fun for young people at the same time as being a role model for them to improve their game.

He has increased participation by recommending new players to continue playing with club members and has also inspired community groups to play (scouts and guides) by inviting them for free coaching sessions. An approach to St James school also resulted in weekly sessions for the boys to attend the club.

Roger also undertakes team training for both ladies and men, together with weekly sessions for drills and fun cardiac sessions to improve fitness. These sessions are popular and welcomed by club members and visitors alike.

He has encouraged two youngsters to achieve the assistant Coach course in tennis and this has given them confidence to help him run coaching courses.

Roger is currently working towards achieving the Level 4 qualification in coaching and players with other club members in matches which helps to improve his own standard as well as that of others.

He is not paid directly by the club but is the Head Coach and receives remuneration independently under the direction of the Director of Coaching. He spends 30-40 hrs per week in coaching at Ashford LTC.

His dedication was proven recently when he undertook a 24hr tennis marathon together with a member and between them they raised over £1500 for the club’s charity of the year (Sam Beare unit) together with another worthwhile cause.

It is also evident by the fact that Roger was coaching in the States but has decided to dedicate his skills and time to his ‘old’ club where he learnt to play as a junior.

Roger also coaches a young man with autism and his patience and skill in undertaking this challenging task is second to none.

He also attends social tennis sessions at the club and is a valued, approachable and respected coach by members, parents, children and visitors alike.

The current success of the club is certainly partly due to the appointment of Roger as Head Coach.”

I think we could all agree that Roger’s recognition is truly deserved and offer him all our congratulations for the Coach of the Year Award 2018.

Cllr Maureen Attewell, Spelthorne’s Cabinet Member for Community Wellbeing, said: “The Sports Awards provide a great opportunity to celebrate the talents and achievements of our local athletes and recognise the hard work and commitment of the volunteers who support the clubs and players. Thanks to everyone who helped to organise the event and many congratulations to everyone who received an award.”