Rugby ace praises dedicated coaches

ENGLAND international James Simpson-Daniel has little doubt that he owes his rugby career to the coaches who recognised his talent at junior level.

The Gloucester winger had no hesitation in backing our Sports Awards and believes it is vital to champion the work done at grassroots level.

"My abiding memory is come rain or shine, when you turned up to train the coaches were always there," Simpson-Daniel said.

"I remember my old club having training on a Boxing Day.

"At the time you don't appreciate it, but looking back there were people there who weren't being paid ready to take the sessions.

"That's pretty remarkable.

"I would definitely back anything which recognises the commitment of that sort of person.

"As Gloucester players we get out to do quite a bit with local clubs through the community programme, but there are times when you have to pull out because of training or rehab commitments.

"When you coach a side at grassroots level you can't just not turn up. You are out there every week and you have to respect that commitment."

For Simpson-Daniel, who was born in Stockton-on-Tees, it was boarding school head of rugby Neil Rollings who played the most important part.

"Although I started playing when I was about four, it wasn't until my sixth form years that I started to really come on," he said.

"Neil Rollings was the man responsible for developing my rugby at that crucial time, so it's him I have to thank.

"Sports teachers put in a huge number of extra hours above and beyond the call of duty in coaching and referee games and that sort of thing.

"They deserve the plaudits too for the work they put in."

* There are six weeks of voting to go for your nominations for the Sports Awards, with the closing date Friday, October 16.

There are 12 categories in total, including Sports Personality of the Year as well as Junior Team of the Year, Senior Team of the Year, Junior Club of the Year and Senior Club of the Year.

There is also Official of the Year, Young Coach of the Year (under 18 years), Senior Coach of the Year (over 18 years), Disability Sports Person of the Year, Teacher of the Year and Outstanding Services to Sport in Gloucestershire, as well as a Readers' Choice award.