A LOCAL teenager has been shortlisted as a Rising Star in the British Canoeing Annual Awards, for all he has done to support Wiltshire Youth Canoe Club (WYCC), which is based in King George V Park, Melksham.
Finlay Joscelyne, 15, joined WYCC following his participation in one of the club’s introduction courses last year. He is now one of WYCC’s youngest coaches after taking part in the British Canoeing Standup paddleboarding (SUP) Instructor course, which has enabled him to lead multiple sessions of SUP every week, alongside adult coaches.
“This year, Finn has come out of his shell and is now almost unrecognisable as the same person,” says WYCC committee chair, Alex Edwards. “He is now outgoing and confident to challenge himself in front of his peers. He epitomises what a leader is, through his skills and professionalism.
“He inspires his peers and anyone he meets to challenge themselves through his leadership style which his peers find inspirational and fun. Other juniors at the club have been heard to say they want to be like Finn or asked for his help over that of other coaches, because he communicates in a way that resonates with them.”
When Finn took part in the British Canoeing SUP Instructor course, he had no real experience of supporting or teaching others. “Much of Finn’s transformation took place over a single weekend when he took part in the instructor course,” says Alex. “His transformation over the two days completely wowed the other participants. He was both imaginative and creative in the way that you would introduce a new person to SUP in a fun way.
“Right from his first session after the course, his passion for looking after the individuals as well as the group has been evident. He has a very unique paddler-focused style to his coaching. He is always the first to play and fall off his board in such a casual way that puts everyone at ease.
“Finn is a true leader as he is not just there for the paddling, but there to help get the equipment set up and he supports and encourages the paddlers to learn these aspects themselves to be more self-reliant.”
Paddleboarding is Finn’s main focus, but he also gets involved in other disciplines such as slalom and racing to challenge himself.
“Finn is clearly looking to develop further, having expressed his interest in developing further safety and rescue skills and broadening his coaching skills to support the running of sessions,” explains Alex.
“Since completing his SUP instructor course, Finn has assisted in the delivery of paddleboarding sessions multiple times a week, every week. Whilst Finn is not yet old enough for him to run sessions on his own, the club approach allows him the opportunity to take the lead with sessions, whilst supported by adult coaches.”
There are two other nominees within the Rising Star category. The winner will be announced on Sunday 10th December. To cast a vote, visit: https://www.britishcanoeing.org.uk/news/2023/vote-for-your-2023-annual-award-winners
Other categories in the awards are Above & Beyond; Clear Access, Clear Waters Champion; Engagement; Inspirational Person; and Outstanding Coach.
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