NOMINATIONS are now being sought for the prestigious Horse Sport Ireland (HSI) Coach of the Year Awards 2017. The Coach of the Year award is designed to honour and acknowledge the contribution that great coaches make to equestrian sport. The awards are presented to two coaches who have made an outstanding difference to the performance of a particular competitor(s) or team throughout the competition year. 2017 has been a remarkable year for Irish equestrian sport and as a result we would like some input from you, the competitor.

We are asking all competitors to nominate the coach who has made a significant difference to you and your horse(s) throughout the year. You may nominate a coach in one or both categories.

This award will be made to a coach working with athletes and teams at the highest level of sport. The award looks for evidence of rider focused development leading to successful performance at the most senior level nationally or internationally.

Development Coach

This award will be made to a coach who has made an outstanding contribution to the introduction and early development of sport for young people under the age of 25.

All nominated coaches should meet the following criteria:

• Hold an HSI Coaching Qualification or equivalent

• Consistently demonstrate high standards of coaching

• Perform well on days of competition

• Maintain good relationships with riders, owners, stewards and HSI/FEI officials

• Demonstrate an interest in the coach education process

• Demonstrate their commitment to ongoing improvement as a coach

The nominations will be put forward to a committee which will decide the overall winner.

All nominations will be treated with the strictest of confidence.

Please contact Katie Nolan or Catherine Farrell at cfarrell@horsesportireland.ie or call +353 45 854533 for a nomination form. All nominations must be returned by Friday November 10th 2017.