BURY AC is offering the community the chance to get involved in coaching with a selection of courses including Coaching Assistant and Leadership in Running Fitness (LiRF).

The drive is part of a national campaign by England Athletics, #gocoach, which aims to get 10,000 new coaches into the sport by 2020.

You do not need to have a sporting background to become a coach – people of all ages, backgrounds and aspirations can get involved.

The joint fastest woman in the world in 2018, Dina Asher-Smith, is fronting the #gocoach campaign as she is fully aware of the importance of great coaches in the sport, having trained with the same coach, John Blackie, since she was nine years old. 

Blackie said: “Being a coach is incredibly rewarding. Not only are you able to share achievements, but you’re also there to support and motivate during any low moments.

"I’ve been lucky enough to work with Dina for 14 years now, and share her journey to being the fastest British woman in history.

"The joys of coaching don’t just apply to working with elite athletes though; being a volunteer coach or leader is an extremely worthwhile role. I would encourage everyone to get involved.”

Being a coach or run leader is a great way to get involved in the sport, build new friendships and positively affect the lives of other people in your local community.

Coaches have a tremendous impact on people’s experience of sport and physical activity, whether that’s helping them to achieve their full potential as a competitive athlete or encouraging them to become active and enjoy the many benefits of exercise.

To find out more about England Athletics’ #gocoach campaign, and to find out more about volunteer coaching visit

https://gocoach.englandathletics.org/.