Released: 22.02.10

A UCP Marjon student currently studying a BA (Hons) in Coach and PE has been awarded the Coach of the Year award at  The ‘Chance to shine Achievement Awards’,  an event held in Birmingham that recognised the efforts of the teachers, coaches and club managers involved on the ground in the country's biggest school sports development initiative. Chairman of the England and Wales Cricket Board Giles Clarke, England Women's captain Charlotte Edwards, former England captain Mike Gatting, ICC President David Morgan and former England players Devon Malcolm and Vikram Solanki were among the guests

Matt Counsell from Chard Cricket Club, Somerset won Coach of the Year Award 2009/10 (sponsored by Slazenger).

The Judges said:“Matt journeys 80 miles to complete sessions. He has never been late or called off a session. He shows enthusiasm and commitment and has a super way of communicating with the children. He has encouraged participation in cricket at all levels from teachers to pupils, including girls, as well as actively promoted Chance to shine in local newspapers. He also assisted with organising the International 20/20 demos at Taunton.”

Matt was delighted with the award and said:
“I was nominated by the club I worked for which was Chard CC and then I was put forward by Somerset for the Regional coach of the year and won, so got put forward for the national award. I am tremendously proud of what I have achieved and am very fortunate to have to be put forward for such a prestigious award at such a young age. My time on the BA Coach & PE degree at UCP Marjon has been excellent with nearly 3 years studying and grounding in sports coaching, education and sports development this has made me a much better coach and has obviously played a part in me winning the award. The content of the course has been brilliant and has provided lots of sporting opportunities.”