Nova Scotia Coaches Honoured with Diamond Jubilee Award
Eight Nova Scotians received the Queen Elizabeth II Diamond Jubilee Award in recognition of their contributions to coaching development and coach education.
Health and Wellness Minister David Wilson congratulated the recipients for their work with the Coaching Association of Canada's National Coaching Certification Program (NCCP).
The recipients are:
- Wendy Bedingfield, Wolfville
- Thomas J. Doucette, Middle Musquodoboit
- Steve Fairbairn, Fall River
- Peggy Gallant, Antigonish
- Nigel Kemp, Halifax
- Ken Lenihan, Bedford
- Michael Mackay, Truro
- Elizabeth Pace, Halifax
"We are very proud of all recipients," said Mr. Wilson. "Coaching is an important aspect of sport and helps create a healthy and prosperous Nova Scotia. The outstanding work of these eight people has made great improvements to sport here in Nova Scotia, which is very apparent when we look at the calibre of our athletes."
During the Diamond Jubilee celebrations in 2012, 49 people received the Queen Elizabeth II Diamond Jubilee Medal for their work with the NCCP. Most Nova Scotia's coaches were awarded their medals. Some will receive their medals at the Atlantic Coaching Conference held in April.
Coaching Association of Canada CEO John Bales said the NCCP is recognized across all levels of government as the standard in coach training and certification.
"We are very excited to honour these individuals who have made that level of achievement possible," said Mr. Bales. "The quality of the program can be seen in over a million NCCP trained and certified coaches across the country, and in the outstanding athletes they coach everyday."
In the province's plan for a healthier Nova Scotia, Thrive!, 34 main actions are set out to create supportive environments for healthy eating and physical activity - such as new programs to provide opportunities for free access to sport and recreation facilities.
Through the work of the eight recipients and Thrive!, coaches throughout Nova Scotia have more resources to strengthen Nova Scotia's athletic programs.