South West coaches and umpires recognised through the DSR High Performance and Regional scholarships.
Coaches, officials, administrators and support personnel are an integral part of sport in the South West, enabling clubs to create the right environment for athletes to excel.
23 September 2009
That's why talented and determined applicants in the South West have been successful in gaining High Performance and Regional Coaching and Officiating scholarships.
High Performance scholarships are offered annually by DSR in partnership with Lotterywest and WAIS, providing a unique opportunity for state sporting associations (SSAs) to work closely with award recipients to establish personalised professional development and mentoring plans and to identify and develop targeted education and training opportunities.
Regional Coaching and Officiating Scholarships are also provided annually to regional and remote coaches, officials, administrators and support personnel involved within a regional, state and/or national level development pathway.
"These scholarships are a unique opportunity for coaches, umpires, administrators and support personnel in providing effective pathways for professional and skill development for people in regional and metropolitan areas," DSR community sport and recreation project officer Jacqui Jashari said.
Andy Cottam is aiming for the top in cricket coaching and says the High Performance scholarship will go a long way in supporting him on that mission.
"The more experience I get as a coach the better, and to be (in Queensland) with the best players in the Australia, to be part of that group of players and coaches, you can't get better experience," Mr Cottam said.
"The funding is just going to take away that extra cost and to receive funding to further your skills is a real bonus."
As an ex UK county cricketer, Andy has been back and forwards to Australia from the UK for 18 years. Once he retired from professional cricket, the decision was made to move to Australia and is now a permanent resident.
"I think the Australian mentality is a lot more confident and there's more continuity in (cricket) coaching," Mr Cottam said.
"In Australia, the first thing you learn about cricket is to win the game, you plan to win, you don't plan to draw."
Andy's decision to emigrate is a bonus for Australian cricket and the DSR High Performance scholarship is another stepping stone towards achieving his ambitions.
"At this stage I aim to coach as support staff at international or state level, I'm still building my CV as a coach and am slowly going up the ladder working with state players which is great."
Keep an eye out for Andy Cottam and the other DSR High Performance and Regional scholarship winners' achievements over the next year - they're leading the way creating a solid foundation for future scholarship winners in the South West.
For more information on the High Performance and Regional Coaching and Officiating scholarships contact Jacqui Jashara.
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