A RUGBY league coach has been rewarded for his commitment to the sport.
Allen Jones, of Summerhill, Wrexham, has been named Volunteer Coach of the Year for the Warrington and South Cheshire area by the Rugby Football League.
The Chester Gladiators junior coach was presented with his award at the Super League contest between Warrington Wolves and Hull FC by Wolves chief executive Andy Gatcliffe and service area co-ordinator Alan Kilshaw.
Mr Jones’ award recognises the work performed by volunteer coaches at the grass roots level of the sport.
He said: “Performances have been brilliant this summer and results far better than we could have expected at this stage of our development.
“We concentrate on core skills, game awareness and teamwork. We try to build confidence in our youngsters and ensure all of our sessions are enjoyable, but we also set high standards in both performance and behaviour.”
After receiving his award Mr Jones was quick to acknowledge the hard work and commitment of players, parents and fellow coaches.
He said: “The juniors’ attitudes have been first class and we have a great set of parents who are really supportive.
“We have a wealth of talent and potential at the club and have already seen six juniors selected for an elite coaching programme with staff coaches at Warrington Wolves.
“I’m also fortunate to have a great team of coaches around me with both Adam Turner and Chris Lloyd Davies making a real contribution to the development of the players.”
Jim Green, Gladiators chairman, said: "Allen is a real asset to our club and the sport in general. He has worked tirelessly to develop our junior section and helped to establish us as one of the leading sports clubs in the area for both senior and junior players.
“Allen is hugely passionate about rugby league and this award is recognition of his sterling work since joining our club.”