Hockey Coach Handed Award by HRH The Princess Royal

England Hockey were delighted to see that Macclesfield-based coach Louise Broome was handed a UK Coaching Hero award by HRH The Princess Royal.

Louise was honoured at the UK Coaching Hero Awards in Leeds earlier this month and was recognised for her efforts in keeping hockey going during lockdown, making a considerable difference to people’s health and wellbeing. 

A primary school PE teacher by trade, Louise delivered online hockey sessions for Wilmslow Hockey Club, as well as keeping key workers’ children active in school.  

UK Coaching wrote: ‘Louise delivered with enthusiasm, love and encouragement for all ages and abilities. For her participants, she personally called players to check up on them and make sure they were happy, healthy and safe. She also ensured there was regular entertainment for all club members to get involved in, involving bingo, quizzes and a virtual race night. Once the club returned face-to-face, Louise organised an interclub friendly that was Grand National themed and all players wore fascinators to get into the spirit!’

Stuart Guise, Great Britain Hockey Head of Coach Development said: “Huge congratulations go to Louise for being a shining light in the North West during the pandemic. We have heard many fantastic and inspiring stories of the role that coaches played during very difficult times, and she very much deserves to be recognised for her efforts.”

UK Coaching Director of Coaching Emma Atkins said: “Many congratulations to all our winners. We applaud your efforts and the role you played in your communities, boosting morale and lifting people’s moods in a completely alienating time. Helping people to use sport and physical activity positively through challenging times is a privilege and one which carries huge responsibilities, and you took your duties seriously, using your initiative to create solutions to the embargo on most sport and physical activity – looking always to what was possible – thank you.”