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North-East judo coaches up for top awards
South Shields-based judo coach Elizabeth Wood has been named as a finalist in the Children’s Coach category of the 2011 UK Coaching Awards, that are hosted by sports coach UK.

The 37-year-old’s classes, that combine fun and education, have led to an impressive uptake in judo among 5-16 year olds in the South Shields area. 120 young people have taken up the sport in the last 12 months alone, with funding allocated by Elizabeth helping them become members and start their journey up the judo grades. She has also sought funding to allow new young coaches to help with young people’s development in the sport.

On top of her everyday coaching at South Shields Judo Club Elizabeth has developed FUN Days, development competitions and held competition volunteers courses.

Also shortlisted for the Award, that is supported by John Lewis Partnership: Partners in Sport, are rugby league coach Philippa Robinson and rugby union coach Mike Avis.

Meanwhile, Stokesley judo coach Michael Simpson has been named as a finalist in the Participation category, that is supported by sportscotland.

The nomination is due reward for the positive impact Michael has had on the lives of young people in the Middlesbrough area after setting up a schools judo programme.

Michael’s work has seen 100 youngsters experience judo and amongst those to benefit are children who have struggled in mainstream education. Michael has used external funding and the British Schools Judo Monstar award scheme to help such youngsters feel positive about themselves.

Also shortlisted for the award are multi-skills coach Michael Moore and netball coach Patricia Balcombe.

The Awards take place at the Jumeirah Carlton Tower in London’s Knightsbridge on 29 November at a glittering ceremony that will be attended by sports coach UK patron, HRH the Princess Royal.

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