Male Coach of the Year
Melvyn Buxton, The Colin Deaton TT Centre Meadows
Mel has made an outstanding contribution to coaching at the club and many schools in the Chesterfield area for almost ten years, most of the time as head coach.
He works at all levels starting players off at school and developing them to county, regional and national level. At the recent European Youth Championships three of the four England cadet boys’ team which won three silver medals came through Mel’s hands – something his mentor Colin Deaton would have been justifiably proud of.
Without a doubt Mel’s coaching role has been the singular most important reason for the high level of participation and achievement in the Chesterfield area. His devotion to our sport is unquestionable and his record of achievement is superb.
Female Coach of the Year
Sue Hayes, Cippenham TTC
This highly professional level 4 coach joined Cippenham TTC after moving to Slough in 1997. She has made a significant contribution to coaching at club, league, county and national level and has been a previous Female Coach of the Year winner in 2001. Since her first award Sue has organised foreign coaching exchanges to Spain and Ireland, devised and trailed an adult coaching programme, and organised and hosted a women and girls session.
Community Coach of the Year
Maggie Edwards, Northampton Junior TTC
A retired PE teacher, she has tremendous enthusiasm for the sport encouraging young people to take it up. In 1998 Maggie set up Northampton Junior Table Tennis Club where the standard of coaching is excellent and youngsters are encouraged to play in all local competitions. Her enthusiasm and good humour is contagious and she continues to introduce youngsters to the enjoyment of playing Table Tennis.
