Helen is coach of the year

Wednesday 16 November 2011

Cardiff coach Helen James has beaten off rivals from netball and karate to be crowned Welsh Sports' female coach of the year.

This accolade was announced at the annual presentation ceremony held in Cardiff today and is richly deserved.

Helen, who was an outstanding sprinter herself, coaches a group of athletes ranging from age 11 to senior level, competing over 100m, 200m and 400m.

Under her guidance, under 23 athlete Gareth Hopkins is the current Welsh indoor senior 200m champion and was selected to run for Wales at senior level indoors and outdoors in 2011. Others in Helen's squad include Gareth Price, Ryan Cooper, Lara Durrani and Anex da Silva all of whom have represented Wales this year.

She goes above and beyond coaching for her athletes, providing them with emotional support and motivation to achieve their goals in sport.

Helen was awarded a Life Membership of Cardiff AAC in 2010 and has also received a meritorious award from Welsh Athletics for services to athletics.

Congratulations Helen.