Whittlesea athletics coach Craig Chapman named best in Victoria
He hasn’t competed on the track recently, but Whittlesea City’s Little Athletics coach Craig Chapman has won one of the biggest athletics awards in the state.
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Craig Chapman is more used to running over hurdles and coaching others to do the same than he is standing in the spotlight.
But the Whittlesea City Little Athletics Centre coach has reason to take stock and reflect on 12 seasons with the club after being named Coach of the Year at the Little Athletics Victoria Awards on July 27.
Mr Chapman also works as a competition director and athletic development officer for the Little Athletics Program in northern suburb schools.
He said he was “shocked” to be recognised at a state level.
“When I think about it, it’s really a big thank you to them (my squad) that I have coached over this journey, as I probably wouldn’t have achieved what I have today without them,” Mr Chapman said.
In March two athletes coached by Mr Chapman qualified for the Australian Little Athletics Championships Squad.
Whittlesea City Little Athletics president Tony Newstead said it followed a string of wins for athletes coached by Mr Chapman.
“This recognition is truly deserved and seeing the surprise and happiness on his face when he was announced as the winner was wonderful,” Mr Newstead said.
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Mr Chapman said he had loved little athletics since he was a child, and while two of his three children had chosen to excel in other sports, athletics remained as rewarding as when he first stepped on the track.
“ I really enjoy watching the athletes develop and improve in this sport,” he said.
“It’s very rewarding to see them grow and succeed over the years.”
Mr Chapman said he would celebrate the award by doing what he knows best — returning to the club’s Epping track helping budding athletes.
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