Q&A - Hilary Atkinson
Hilary Atkinson is a Youth Club Coach. She has been coaching for 10 years after completing a Leaders course in 1998. She holds a SHU Level 1 course as well as Badminton coaching qualifications.
Why or what got you interested in coaching?
I had an increasing interest during senior school and in my final year at school I helped out with the junior PE classes and really caught the coaching bug. Both my parents were involved in coaching and I was also encouraged by coaches who I have been fortunate to work with.
What did you get from the coaching courses?
I learnt not only the technicalities of the "what to coach", such as strokes and the tactics and principles of playing, but also the "how to coach" skills such as communication skills, delivery methods and session planning that are transferable into many arenas, not only coaching. I also learnt from the other candidates on the courses and shared skills and experience.
Who is your role model and why?
I have been fortunate to experience and work with lots of people and have learnt something from all of them!
What’s your top coaching tip?
Keep it simple - it doesn't matter what age the players are, the more straightforward the explanation the better.
What is your coaching philosophy?
I believe we should be encouraging more of our best coaches to work with young children so that young people have the basic fundamentals and correct skills in whichever sport they choose to play to allow them the ability and enjoyment to participate throughout life.
What’s the most memorable moment of your coaching career so far?
It is a pleasure every time a player, especially a young player, grasps a new concept or realises an improvement in their performance.