Rowing coach Kim Norris of New Brunswick received Rowing Canada Aviron's top Coaching Recognition Award at its annual coaching conference this past weekend in Calgary, Alta.
"Kim Norris has been involved with the coaching education side of the sport for many years," said Carolyn Trono, who is in charge of coaching development for Rowing Canada Aviron. "His contribution to mentoring younger coaches in the region has been phenomenal. He has worked with coaches from Newfoundland, Nova Scotia and New Brunswick."
Norris (pictured at right with fellow coach Ian McFarlane) has been involved in the development of rowing in this region for more than 25 years, and has had a hand in producing many National Team athletes.
"His commitment to coaching excellence is evident by his serious approach to technical improvement while balancing a great relationship with his athletes," said women's National Team rower Jane Rumball, in her nomination letter. "Along with his aptitude in coaching, he has demonstrated enthusiasm in the development of coaches and encouragement of officials. He raises the bar of rowing and I believe that it is solely because of his passion and perseverance that Fredericton Rowing Club exists today. "
Norris has also volunteered on the national level and is a member of Rowing Canada's Master Course Conductor Committee.
Norris lives in New Brunswick, with his wife, Betty Dermer-Norris, a former Executive Committee member of Rowing Canada Aviron and current Manager of Games for the Canadian Olympic Committee.
Others recognized at the annual awards banquet:
Petro Canada Excellence Award - Howie Campbell of Victoria (helped the National Team mens four win a bronze at the 2005 World Championships)
Level 4 certification - Jill Wurflinger of Vancouver
Level 3 certification
John Nisbet, Ottawa Rowing Club
Carol Love, Peterborough Rowing Club
Anne-Renée Thibault, Association québécoise d'aviron
Michelle Darvill, Western/London Rowing Club
Chris Davidson, Calgary Rowing Club
Debbie Sage, Brentwood Rowing Club
Susanne Walker, Brentwood Rowing Club
Kelley Ainley, Brentwood Rowing Club
Alia Zawicki