This page contains a Flash digital edition of a book.
| COMMUNITY COACHING |


11


Warrington Ladies squad and understands the demands of coaching.


Experienced coach Johnson was instrumental in Rhys and Ben Evans’ move from South Wales. Rhys is now making great inroads into his career with Warrington and has made no secret of his desire to represent England at international level.


Johnson cites his greatest influence as his first mentor Brian Chambers who he still goes to for advice, but also recognises others who have been of great support to him throughout his coaching life.


‘I have been fortunate to have great mentors in Brian Chambers, Vinny Webb and so many other coaches who have shared knowledge,’ he explains. ‘It is a vital part of becoming a well-rounded coach. There will always be someone with a different approach.


‘My approach has always been to listen to other coaches at any level and seek advice. Be honest and open with your own philosophy.


‘My highlights have been coaching England Ladies, developing juniors who have gone to sign professional


contracts, but most of all helping to give young people confidence and guidance to develop.’


The Thatto Heath ladies coaching team includes Gemma Walsh, who is a vastly experienced England international who signed from Featherstone. The ladies’ captain is Jenny Welsby, who played at Thatto Heath as a junior and is now a full international, while both of manager Karen Smith’s daughters are in the team.


Off the field, Thatto Heath was proud to be the very first club in the country to independently achieve the prestigious Clubmark Accreditation, awarded by Sport England. This is a national set of standards and has been developed in partnership with governing bodies that enable an organisation to achieve a desired standard in duty of care and young person protection, sports equity and ethics, the playing programme and club management.


That has been the latest feather in the cap of a club that continues to set coaching standards and inspire the next generation to fulfill their potential.


Page 1  |  Page 2  |  Page 3  |  Page 4  |  Page 5  |  Page 6  |  Page 7  |  Page 8  |  Page 9  |  Page 10  |  Page 11  |  Page 12  |  Page 13  |  Page 14  |  Page 15  |  Page 16