Gavin named coach of year at SLSNZ awards, Wilson wins ‘junior surf contribution’

Midway's head coach Jack Gavin was named New Zealand coach of the year at the national surf lifesaving awards at the weekend.

Midway’s Jack Gavin was named coach of the year at the Surf Life Saving NZ Awards of Excellence in Christchurch at the weekend and Waikanae’s Edan Wilson won the “junior surf contribution of the year” award.

Gavin was named the Tairāwhiti district’s coach of the year earlier this year and Wilson the junior surf contributor.

Dawson Building Midway’s Gavin competes for the club, as well as being a patrol captain.

His work as club coach saw Midway finish in second place at the New Zealand championships in March and he has been praised for his “exceptional leadership skills and unwavering dedication” to Midway success.

“Under his guidance, the team has not only developed their skills but also fostered a strong sense of camaraderie and sportsmanship,” the club said in support of his coach of the year nomination.

“Jack’s innovative coaching techniques propelled our team to numerous victories.”

Gavin said it was a “big thrill” to be named for the national award.

“It’s thanks to the kids I coach more than anything else, and to everyone who has supported me in the role,” he said.

“It’s not just a one-man band, with a lot of people behind me - the likes of Matt Sutton, Jared Phelps and Andy Kinsella.”

Kaiaponi Farms Waikanae’s Wilson, aged 21, was “stoked” to receive her national award.

Waikanae junior surf organiser Edan Wilson (in the midst of the pack) surrounded by some of her young charges on the beach last summer. She was "stoked" to receive the national junior surf contribution award.

Club manager Clara Wilson said Edan had a fantastic year in the junior surf role.

“She was so happy to see the junior surf side of the club prospering.

“Edan recalls the years she spent in junior surf as some of her best memories.”

Surf Life Saving New Zealand service awards were made to Midway members Dave Corrin, Miah Phelps, Jared Phelps and Matt Sutton.

Eastern Region SLSNZ sport manager Sonia Keepa attended the awards function and said it was a “fantastic” evening.

“It celebrated and acknowledged the amazing volunteer contributions, leadership and service that our members provide to our community in ensuring that no one drowns on our beaches.

“Congratulations to the Gisborne lifeguards recognised there on the night.”

None of the Gisborne lifeguards recognised were able to attend in person.