Malcolm Evans, Bowls England’s Director of Coaching, has become the first person to complete the Level 3 coaching qualification with Coach Bowls.
The provision of coaching to players at all levels is vital to the long-term development of the sport of bowls, with the Level 3 qualification focusing on developing high performing bowlers at national and international levels. It aims to challenge coaches to think creatively to develop and use cutting-edge techniques to make short and long-term gains for bowlers.
Following his qualification, Malcolm said: “I am delighted to be confirmed as the first to achieve the new Coach Bowls Level 3 Coaching qualification. Working at this level has challenged me to think about coaching on a wide variety of fronts in order to ensure that I was able to achieve the maximum impact both for the team and individuals concerned.
“My experience working through the qualification was a real pleasure and has opened my eyes even further to the advantages of coaching within the game. If any current Level 2 coaches want to expand their coaching horizons even further, then I would heartily endorse them in thinking seriously about taking the award.”
Coaches must work over a minimum of a 12 months’ period, with bowlers who represent their county in our Inter-County competitions, or have proven to be of at least that standard or its equivalent.
Mal has made a positive impact on Warwickshire’s Johns Trophy squad over the past few years developing a bespoke, tailored programme to develop the players as well as focussing on team dynamics and interactions.
Coaching at this level is still relatively new at the higher levels of the sport, but it is vital to develop a culture, as in most other sports, where individuals and teams have a support structure in place where the coach involved has the knowledge, qualifications and experience to aid, develop and enhance existing skills.
Mal is also involved in assisting with our High Performance Programme for our top bowlers in England.
John McGuinness, Bowls England Performance Director, added: “Coaching forms a vital part of elite athlete development and preparation for any sport, helping players make marginal gains which can often make the difference that ensures potential is achieved.
“Mal’s knowledge of bowls coaching, together with his experience and enthusiasm for the sport is unquestionable, having had the pleasure of working closely with him over the past few years. I look forward to working with Mal and Coach Bowls to support England’s High Performance Programme in the lead up to the 2022 Commonwealth Games in Birmingham and beyond.”
Coach Bowls is the only nationally recognised coaching qualification for the sport of bowls in England. If you are interested in starting or furthering your own coaching journey, please visit www.coachbowls.org for information on all of the modules and qualifications and to book a place.
Our Coaching Bursary scheme assists members of affiliated clubs who wish to obtain a Coach Bowls qualification. The Bowls England Coaching Bursary offers affiliated members 50 per cent of the cost of recognised Coach Bowls courses.