Lerwick Swim Team has become the first sports group in Shetland to achieve the Positive Coaching Scotland "PCS Club" status.
Swimming is a popular sport and pastime in Shetland and its appeal is greatly strengthened by the first-class facilities available, which include a 25m pool in Lerwick's Clickimin Centre and a further eight modern pools around the islands. The vast majority of islanders live less than fifteen minutes" drive from their nearest pool. Island swimmers have frequently won awards in national and international competitions.
The award recognises the Lerwick club's commitment to the Positive Coaching Scotland programme, which promotes a strong and positive culture in youth sport. Club leaders, coaches and parents took part in three workshops provided by local tutors. The principles behind PCS include maintaining respect, rewarding effort, giving praise and learning from mistakes.
Presenting the award to the Lerwick Swim Team swimmers, coaches, and parents, Councillor George Smith, Vice Chair of SIC's Education and Families Committee, said: “This is a great achievement for Lerwick Swim Team and I hope this recognition is something that other sports clubs in Shetland will aspire to. Creating a positive environment for youth sport has to be a good thing for young people in our community.”