The Sporting Equals Awards recognise and celebrate the incredible contributions made by ethnically diverse individuals and communities to the world of sport. These awards highlight the vital role that coaches, athletes, and volunteers play in shaping the future of sport and driving inclusion.
2024 nominees were exceptional individuals who have made significant impacts in their respective sports, with each one demonstrating a deep commitment to developing talent, building communities, and promoting inclusivity.
The England Athletics Coach of the Year Award highlights the growing need for role models from diverse backgrounds within the sport sector. By acknowledging coaches like Darren, Harley, and Manisha, we take a step toward creating a more inclusive sporting environment. These awards not only celebrate the hard work and achievements of these individuals but also inspire the next generation of athletes and coaches to pursue their dreams, no matter their background. Representation matters, and with role models like these, the future of sport is bright and diverse.
In 2024 we had the three incredible nominations for coach of the year as follows.
Harley Hicks
Coach Harley’s dedication to his swimmers goes far beyond the usual responsibilities of a coach. He spends more than 20 hours per week delivering 16 hours of pool training and supervising gym sessions for national-level athletes. His commitment is particularly remarkable given that Gators Swimming Club operates without public funding. Harley shows his dedication by creatively managing resources to ensure that athletes receive the best possible training.
Manisha Tailor MBE
Manisha Tailor MBE is an equality and diversity advocate, working full-time in professional football. Manisha has recently joined Tottenham Hotspur Football Club as their BSC Tottenham Women’s U21 Head Coach and International Development coach (Boys and Girls). Prior to that she was Head of Coach Development (Boys Academy at QPR FC).
Darren Cheesman
Darren has served as a coach for over a decade. He has worked at a community level, supporting Para hockey, school and club level players. In the last six years he has moved from coaching school and British club level hockey to a more professional set up overseas. Initially taking a role at Royal Wellington Hockey Club he was a role model for many children, particularly ethnically diverse ones who have so few in hockey. He then took the role of Head Coach at Waterloo Ducks, to our knowledge the first Black man to be head coach in the Belgian topflight.
Harley Hicks: The Winner
On the night Harley Hicks was the well-deserved winner of the England Athletics Coach of the Year Award. His dedication to his swimmers, his creativity in overcoming challenges, and his commitment to fostering a supportive and inclusive environment make him a truly deserving. Harley’s work exemplifies the qualities that the Sporting Equals Awards stand for—empowerment, dedication, and the celebration of diversity. He was presented with his award by England Athletics board member Lorna Boothe OLY MBE and Sporting Equals Ambassador Vanessa Wallace PLY.
At Sporting Equals, we are proud to continue supporting and celebrating those who are making a difference in the world of sport. We look forward to seeing more coaches like Harley, Darren, and Manisha lead the way, inspiring others and creating lasting change in communities across the country.
