8 Dec 2025 |

UK Coaching Awards 2025 Winners

A coach from South Yorkshire and two from West Yorkshire shared the spotlight as UK Coaching proudly announced the winners of the 2025 UK Coaching Awards during a glittering ceremony at The Queens Hotel in Leeds.

Sophie Evelyn based in Leeds was named Online Coach of the year, Alex Wilson from Sheffield was named Young coach the year and Cyclist Lizzie Deignan from Otley was featured in the Coaching Chain Award.

Sophie Evelyn - Online Coach of the year
Sophie, a powerlifting coach and personal trainer, has built a highly engaged coaching community that extends beyond the individuals she coaches, with over 6,000 social media followers and an online reach that crosses continents. Her group interactions and podcast - which shares case studies, progressions and evidence-based insights – educate, inspire, and create a safe space for questions, discussion and shared learning.

Alex Wilson - Young Coach of the Year
Alex creates inclusive, athlete-led environments where children feel safe, heard, and empowered. As an athletics coach, he supports development across all ability levels. His flexible coaching style adapts to individual needs, balancing fun and focus to build confidence and motivation – especially impactful for neurodivergent and disabled athletes. Sessions are co-designed with children, embedding key skills into engaging games. Older athletes are given agency over their training, fostering autonomy and resilience.

Lizzie Deignan - Coaching Chain Award
Lizzie is the greatest British female road cyclist of her generation. From earning the first medal for Team GB at London’s 2012 Olympics, to her victory in the first women’s Paris-Roubaix in 2021, Lizzie’s career has seen her reach the top of her sport.

The UK Coaching Awards are regarded as one of the most prestigious events within the coaching community and celebrates coaches at all levels. From elite to grassroots, they were established to recognise the invaluable role coaches play in building a happier and healthier society – whether masterminding a gold medal moment that can inspire a nation, or turning up week in, week out to support participants at a community sports club.