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22/01/2021 00:00, In Blog /

For our next installment of our ‘In Conversation With' series, we have an interview with Jeff Roberts from Bridgend who won Development Coach of the Year.

How did you get involved in coaching at Bridgend AC / how did your coaching journey begin?

"My son started training with Bridgend AC after a few months I started to help out while he was training, his coach at the time asked me would I be interested in doing a coaches course and I said yes, I did my level 1 course and I then shadow my sons coach for a while, I then did my level 2 course and I have had my own group since. I coach sprints from under 11s up to under 17s."

What was your initial motivation to begin coaching, has this changed now that you’re regularly involved?

"It was so I could help the athletes succeed in what they were good at and to build their confidence in athletics.  I enjoy coaching more now because I have more knowledge and more experience than when I first started coaching. I also enjoy seeing how the athletes progress every time we train and seeing them gaining new PBs in a competition."

You’ve dedicated many years to the sport and supported many athletes, how does it feel to be recognised with the Welsh Athletics Development Coach of the Year award?

"I was overwhelmed to be nominated for this award, but I was lost for words when I found out that I won this award. I felt greatly appreciated that the athletes and their parents nominated me and that they appreciate me for all the time and effort I put into training them every week." 

We often are modest as coaches, but what we do can really make a difference. What has been your proudest moment so far?

"There have been quite a few moments so far:

• I coached an athlete from under 11s up to under 15s resulting in him gaining his first Welsh vest in the sprints for the Celtic games.
• I have coached many athletes through the years to become Welsh Champions and Regional champions.
• I also coached many relay teams over the years in the under 13s and 15s age groups from all the athletes in Bridgend Ac to enter the Welsh relay teams for the track indoors and outdoors with them winning Gold, Silver, and Bronze medals."

 What are you most looking forward to in 2021?

"I am looking forward to getting back to training at the track and hopefully getting my athletes back doing some competitions."