Liverpool women have been recognised this week for their roles as sports coaches.
The baton for #PassOnYourPassion, a campaign that celebrates women in the sport and physical activity workforce, was handed to the city this week as part of its northern tour.
Clare Cooney, a gymnastics coach, was one of those acknowledged for their role. She told JMU Journalism: “I started coaching when I was about 17 years old. I’d coach in the sessions where they’re beginners and then I’d be joining in when it was my session – I was getting the best of both worlds.
“I just love it, I absolutely love coaching. It’s not just teaching the kids gymnastics, it’s about teaching them discipline, it’s teaching them life skills, it’s teaching them to be independent.”
Only 30% of the coaching workforce in the UK is female.
YouTube: Laura Kelly
Andrew Wileman, from MSP told JMU Journalism: “[Coaching] is all about having the right level of motivation. It’s not about qualifications, it’s about your passion, your motivation and commitment.
“There’s a lot of great coaches out there who aren’t recognised, that’s why we do #PassOnThePassion.”
Earlier this week, the first-ever ‘train workout class’ was held as the inflatable baton was passed to MSP from Active Lancashire on the border of the two cities, in partnership with Merseyrail.
The class was hosted by Juanita Steel, who has also been recognised by #PassOnYourPassion for her role as a female coach.