A well-loved coach from the Thames Valley area has been recognised for his outstanding contribution to the paddling community.
Alex Shiell, Chair of Marlow Canoe Club, was nominated by his fellow paddlers for his dedication and enthusiasm.
Alex said he was touched to receive the award and grateful to his club mates for nominating him.
Paddle UK recognises the remarkable achievements and contributions of individuals through our National Honours & Awards.
The awards celebrate excellence, dedication, and the positive impact on the paddling community.
Post-paddle cakes and brownies
Chloe Smith, the club’s Coaching Officer, said:
“Alex is an incredibly talented and dedicated paddlesports coach. He is a supportive mentor to new and aspiring coaches and leaders, providing opportunities for development and facilitating space for cultivating new ideas within the club environment.
“His passion for kayaking is infectious… He has played a part in the journeys of so many paddlers during his long career.
“He has been so inspiring and supportive on my path to becoming a coach and in developing my white water skills.
“He has always been there to listen, guide and offer reassurance… and to rescue me and my boat on more occasions that I’d like to admit!
“His post-paddle cakes and brownies have also made an outstanding contribution to my love of kayaking!”
Passion for paddling
Brendon Mills, a relative newcomer to Marlow Canoe Club, said:
“Alex is passionate about paddling and wants to share it with anyone who wants to learn.
“He wants everyone to succeed and, for me personally, gets the balance between teaching me what I need to know and letting me figure the rest out for myself just right.”
Alex joined Marlow Canoe Club as a 16-year-old, in 2006, and has become a well-respected and well-liked Chair.
He has given up countless evenings and weekends, alongside a full-time job, to organise and run an extensive range of activities and courses for the club’s diverse and ever-growing members.
Alex is also a strong believer in inclusion and diversity, and since becoming Chair, Marlow Canoe Club now boasts about 300 active members.
Paddle UK would like to offer its thanks and congratulations to Alex for all of his hard work.