An ex-SAS solider-turned-boxing coach from Cumbria has been shortlisted for a national award for his work supporting mental health through sport.
Jimmy Brennan is one of 75 people across the nation to be nominated for a Coaching Hero Award.
The award recognises and celebrates the innovations and achievements of coaches who inspired the nation to keep moving during the coronavirus lockdowns.
The winner will be decided by public vote.
Jimmy looks after a group of over 900 members, where each month a challenge is set for all to participate in daily.
The aim of his work is to support those who are struggling mentally, and to create a support network through physical fitness.
Persevering through social gathering bans, Brennan posts workouts each day on YouTube, which anyone can access.
And as an ex-SAS solider, he knows more than most the value of going that little bit further.
Now back as head coach of his local boxing club, Carlisle Villa Amateur Boxing Club, he said: “I’m absolutely honoured and humbled to be nominated.
“It’s great to see that people have enjoyed my coaching, and to feel like you’re making a positive difference is a wonderful feeling.
“Coaching is so important for communities, I’m determined to let people know they’re not alone, and that someone is looking out for them and wants to support them all the way.
“The pandemic has been a nightmare for me as I am used to interacting with all my classes, being in the gym on your own and posting online is a very lonely place.
“The youngsters I coach have been a great inspiration to me, seeing what they were doing during the lockdown and how they coped with the situation really helped me to get through each day.
“Clearly, the relationship works both ways – they help me as much as I help them!”
Despite having already done so much for his local community, Jimmy said he was always learning, as coaching is a constant development process.
He added “Firstly, I have learned not to take things for granted, to cherish the time we have together and use the time we have in the gym to get the best out of each other.
“That’s what it’s all about really – coaching means supporting one another, appreciating the people around you and striving to be the best you can be.”
To vote for your UK Coaching Hero and to find out more about the campaign, visit ukcoaching.org/coachingweek
Votes close on Monday.
