A Judo Coach from Hamilton has been nominated for a prestigious UK Coaching award, in recognition of their impact on the community, particularly in allowing people regardless of background to try out and enjoy Judo, across a number of roles.

John D’Ambrosio, who coaches the Juniors and Seniors at Hamilton Judo club as well as undertaking roles supporting Disability and Health and Well-being, has been announced as a nominee for the UK Coaching Change a Life Award. The award recognises a coach who has empowered and inspired individuals through #GreatCoaching.

Reflecting on the news, D’Ambrosio said: “I’m incredibly proud to be recognised with a nomination for a UK Coaching Award.

“It’s a huge honour to be acknowledged for doing something I’m so passionate about, and it’s especially meaningful knowing the impact coaching can have on individuals particularly within the Disability/ASN groups.

John D'Ambrosio has been nominated for a UK Coaching Award

placeholder image — John D'Ambrosio has been nominated for a UK Coaching Award

“This nomination is a reflection not just of my work, but of the dedication of everyone I’ve had the privilege to coach and work alongside.

“It’s truly humbling to be considered among such inspiring coaches.”

D’Ambrosio has been a member of Hamilton Judo Club since 1965 and he has many roles within the Club, playing a vital part in all aspects of its operations.

He is a well decorated judoka, boasting multiple bronze, silver and gold medals across many competitions. He has coached many successful judoka over the years and now focuses on passing down his skills to members and the valuable team of volunteers within Hamilton Judo Club Inclusion and Hamilton Judo Club as a whole.

Through his coaching in many capacities as a Junior and Senior coach, health and wellbeing coach and disability coach D’Ambrosio has become an inspiration to everyone at the club

He has ensured the Club operates on the principle that people of all ages, abilities and circumstances should have the opportunity to learn fundamental movement skills that are transferable to all sports, thus encouraging and equipping people to become active for life.

Looking at the motivations behind his coaching, D’Ambrosio added: “As a coach, I try to guide, inspire, and support individuals in reaching their full potential, not only in their performance in our sport but in their personal growth.

“I try my best to work to create an environment where people feel motivated, confident, and to push past their limits, while also learning valuable life skills like resilience, teamwork, and discipline.

“I do it because I genuinely believe I can make a difference to the students, and their family’s watching from the sidelines and hopefully help the younger coaches and volunteers who assist.”

The UK Coaching Awards is regarded as the most prestigious event within the coaching community, established to recognise the invaluable role coaches play in building a happier and healthier society.

Previous award winners have included Sarina Wiegman, Judy Murray, Aston Moore and the coaches behind Lucy Bronze and Ben Stokes’ path to success.

UK Coaching’s CEO Mark Gannon, reflected on the breadth of coaching talent announced as this year’s finalists, he added: “We are very excited to announce the finalists of the 2024 UK Coaching Awards. Each year we see true excellence from our coaches in the UK at every level, and it is a welcome challenge to select our finalists.

“Coaches across the nation can all be proud of the incredible contribution they make to health and well-being in the UK.

“We’ve made some exciting changes to this year’s event and following the Paris Olympic and Paralympic Games this year we look forward to welcoming some special guests from Team GB.”

The awards will be held on 10 December at The Queens Hotel in Leeds.

Find out more about this year’s finalists and the awards by heading to www.ukcoaching.org/events/our-awards.