One of Scotland’s leading bowls coaches has had his contribution to sport recognised with the Lifetime Achievement in Coaching Award from sportscotland.
Bob Dick, 79, from Cupar in Fife, has been awarded the accolade for his lifetime commitment and passion for coaching.
Bob is an advanced coach with over 30 years’ experience and has represented the country as a player on 22 occasions. He has coached and team managed both mainstream and para bowls over the course of his career and has attended three Commonwealth Games. He led the Scotland Men’s Para Triples Team to the gold medal at the 2002 Commonwealth Games in Manchester, whilst his visually impaired B2/B3 Mixed Pair won silver at the 2014 Glasgow Commonwealth Games.
Commenting on his success, Bob said: “It was very early in the coaching scene that I became involved. I think when you start coaching, it’s to give something back to the game that you love.
“I was asked to manage the para-bowlers at the Commonwealth Games in Manchester, 2002 – they won a gold medal in the physically disabled triples and in the mainstream pairs. I think two gold medals out of four was a really good achievement if I’m honest!
“It’s absolutely wonderful when you’re in a Commonwealth Games or international bowls with the para players – especially when your country does very well.
“There are always disappointments when you’re a coach, but there are also so many amazing moments.”
Robert’s involvement with disability bowls has been hailed as giving the sport discipline, credibility and status. Upon returning from the IBD World Championships in Australia in 2007 as Head Coach for Disability Bowls, Robert vowed to improve the quality and quantity of coaches training and attending major championships with the national team. With more and better qualified coaches working with the team in the run up to the 2011 World Championships in South Africa, the Scotland team came second in the world.
He was also part of the team at the 2015 World Championships in New Zealand that saw Scotland come second in the medal table, winning six gold medals and four bronze.
Currently, Bob is working with the team leading up to the Gold Coast 2018 Commonwealth Games, where Scotland will be represented in the physically disabled Open Triple and the visually impaired Mixed pair. A strong team of players has recently been selected and can look forward to the Games with optimism (https://scottishdisabilitysport.com/gold-coast-2018-para-bowls-squad-announced/)
Scottish Disability Sport Performance Manager Gary Fraser, said: “We nominated Robert for this award because of his dedication to the sport over a long period of time – we felt it was time for Robert to receive recognition for all his hard work.
“His longevity, attention to detail and commitment to the sport has earned him so much respect – especially his achievements both as a player and a coach.”
Stewart Harris, Chief Executive of sportscotland, said: “Every year across Scotland, thousands of dedicated sporting enthusiasts devote their time, knowledge and skills to help others achieve their sporting goals. Our Coaching, Officiating and Volunteering Awards provide us with a chance to celebrate the great sporting achievements that are taking place every day and congratulate individuals on their commitment to Scottish sport.
“As one of Scotland’s most experienced and respected coaches, Robert is admired for his skill and knowledge. Not only does he bring out the best in his players, but it’s evident that he truly cares and is passionate about helping his teams succeed.
“As a champion of inclusion, Robert’s accolades are a testament to all his hard work.
“At sportscotland we are implementing a world-class sporting system at every level in Scotland and we can only do so with the support of the many dedicated coaches, officials and volunteers.
“I hope that many more people are inspired by our winners and recognise the opportunities that exist to get involved in sport at every level from volunteering at your local club or school to coaching or officiating on the world stage.”