Denis Cotterell Named QAS ‘Coach of the Year’ 2003

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The Queensland Academy of Sport 2004 Athletes’ Breakfast was held on Wednesday 25 April at the function room in the Gabba. The highlight of the breakfast was the presentation of the ‘QAS Coach of the Year’ award for 2003 to network swimming coach, Denis Cotterell. This is the second time that Denis has been honoured with this award after receiving it in 2001.

Denis received this accolade for his outstanding achievements with Grant Hackett in 2003. At the World Championships in July, Grant confirmed his place as the world’s premier distance swimmer, winning his third consecutive world title in the 1500m freestyle. He also picked up gold in the 800m freestyle, silver in the 400m freestyle, bronze in the 200m freestyle and was a member of Australia’s victorious 4 x 200m freestyle relay team.

The Deputy Premier and Minister for Sport, Mr Terry Mackenroth, presented the award to Mr Cotterell. Denis joins Head Swimming Coach, Scott Volkers, and former Head Cycling Coach, Peter Day, as a recipient of this award.

QAS Exeuctive Director, Mr Alex Baumann, said that Denis’ hard work and dedication to swimming in Queensland made him a worthy recipient of this award.

“Denis has been instrumental in producing some of Queensland’s greatest swimmers,” Mr Baumann said.

“Denis recognised Grant’s talent at the age of six and has guided him through his successful career to become the world’s leading distance swimmer.”

“Denis is also renowned for coaching Australian swimming icons Giann Rooney and Daniel Kowalski.”

The 2004 Athletes’ Breakfast also featured an interview with QAS triathlete, Laura Luxford, about her identification through the schools based Talent Search Program and her progression to becoming a member of the Australian Junior Sprint Team. Guest Speaker and Coach of the Brisbane Lions, Leigh Matthews, enlightened guests about his experiences as a player and a coach and the pressures involved in elite sport.

A panel discussion was also held with Olympic medal contenders Libby Lenton (Swimming squad), Naomi Castle (Women’s Water Polo squad) and Justin Anlezark (Athletics squad). Each member discussed their goals and aspirations as they prepare for the Athens Olympics.