UK Coaching calls on North-East sports fans to vote for Great Coaching Moment
UK Coaching has officially opened the public vote for this year’s Great Coaching Moment – a key highlight of the annual UK Coaching Awards. From unforgettable triumphs to moments made possible by truly inspirational leadership, four standout stories have been shortlisted and sports fans in the North-East have the chance to vote.
The Great Coaching Moment award shines a spotlight on the coaches whose leadership and mastery of the art of coaching helped shape the most unforgettable sporting moments of the past year.
This award doesn’t just celebrate individual or team glory – it honours the spirit of great coaching. From legendary comebacks and heart-stopping drama to grit under pressure and moments of sheer brilliance, these coaches have created memories that will live long in the hearts of sports fans.
The coaches’ devotion to their athletes and teams, and their embodiment of coaching excellence, laid the foundations for these four history-making moments from Red Roses coach John Mitchell, Lionesses manager Sarina Wiegman and Lions head coach Andy Farrell.
Mitchell has maintained a flawless record since taking over the England hot seat from Simon Middleton in 2023, culminating in World Cup glory this September as they beat Canada 33-13 in an enthralling final.
Named World Rugby Coach of the Year before the trophy presentation, the former All Blacks head coach – who was part of the backroom staff when England’s men fell short in the 2019 World Cup final – showcased astute tactics and inspirational leadership that not only delivered silverware but also helped upend gender stereotypes.
Meanwhile, Lionesses coach Wiegman has remarkably been nominated twice. She guided her team to glory at this summer’s Women’s Euros, beating Spain on penalties in the final. They became the first England senior team to win a major tournament on foreign soil – and the first to retain a title. She was at the heart of the team’s unity, installing a mindset that empowered players to thrive under pressure.
However, her tactical acumen was also matched by her emotional intelligence when defender Jess Carter received vile racist abuse during the group stages. Wiegman opted to play Carter in the final, offering unwavering support.
Her “all for one, one for all” ethos isn’t just a slogan – it’s the soul of this Lionesses squad. Wiegman’s decision to start Carter in the final spoke to Wiegman’s deep understanding of her players, her ability to read the emotional pulse of the team, and her gift for turning adversity into fuel. It was a coaching masterstroke that gave Carter the platform to silence her critics and shine.
Finally, Lions head coach Andy Farrell guided his team to a historic victory in Australia this year. It was the first Test series win for the Lions since 2013, cementing their place in the history books.
He faced criticism during the warm-up matches, and even after the opening 27-19 win in Brisbane, but following a second Test for the ages – packed with controversy, big moments, and a rousing come-from-behind 29-26 win – Farrell was instantly vindicated, lauded for trusting his instincts, selecting players in form, and fostering a remarkable team spirit.
Reflecting on the shortlist for this year’s Great Coaching Moment, UK Coaching CEO Mark Gannon said: “Coaches are the driving force behind the motivation and inspiration of their athletes and players. Without their guidance, direction, and devotion, the journey from raw potential to the pinnacle of performance would remain unrealised.
“It is testimony to the leadership of these three outstanding coaches – their command of their craft, exceptional versatility, and breadth of expertise – that they have been shortlisted. Most of all, it is their instinctive people skills and unwavering belief in themselves as coaches, and in the individuals and teams they support, that made some of the most unforgettable sporting moments of the past year possible.
“As I am every year, I’m excited to see who the public chooses.”
Vote for your favourite at https://ukcoaching.awardsplatform.com/auth/login/XNOZgade before Monday 24 November 2025.
Find out more about the Awards by heading to https://www.ukcoaching.org/our-campaigns/our-awards/.