Don McFarlane was awarded the Disability Coach of the Year Award at the recent ClubSport Edinburgh Sports Awards, recognising many years of dedication to disability swimming across Edinburgh and the East of Scotland.
The ClubSport Edinburgh Sport Awards recognise teams and individuals who have performed extraordinarily or those passionate people who dedicate their lives helping others. The ceremony, managed by ClubSport Edinburgh with support from a range of partners, took place at the City Chambers on Friday 1st December.
Don McFarlane has been developing and inspiring swimmers with a disability for well over 20 years, initially in Midlothian and latterly in Edinburgh with discrete swim club Lothian Racers. Don has coached locally, regionally and nationally, helping a great number of para swimmers reach their potential in the sport, ensuring the individuals have all the relevant tools to achieve their individual goals – some previous swimmers include Paralympic medal winners Jim Anderson OBE, James Clegg and Scott Quin.
Earlier in 2017, Don decided to step down as head coach for Lothian Racers and this award recognises the hard work, enthusiasm and dedication over the years and is thoroughly well deserved. Don remains heavily involved with the East of Scotland Regional Squad, continuing to work closely with up and coming swimmers hoping to achieve similar success to swimmers that have went before. Don also received recognition at this year’s Lothian Disability Sport Awards, reinforcing the high esteem which he is held across the region.