Coach Feature: Nathan Sainsbury
What events (or sports) do you coach? I coach athletics with
Whitsunday Athletics Club, Rugby with Whitsunday Raiders/Mackay-Whitsunday Stingers, and Weightlifting with Whitsunday Weightlifting Club
What the most memorable coaching experience you have had in athletics?
It is hard to choose between my two Oceania trips, though Fiji in ’17 was pretty special because… well… Fiji! Being part of the RAT team is always special though.
What is the most rewarding aspect about being a coach
Helping athletes and teams reach their goals and achieve things they did not think they were capable of. Particularly at big events. I get these athletes for such a short time, but together achieve PBs and defy expectations. So much fun.
Best coaching advice you have been given?
Focus on one thing at a time rather than overloading the athlete with feedback
What advice would you give to someone considering starting their journey as a coach?
Put your hand up and have a go. You never know where doing so might take you. Make sure you listen, observe and research your sport.
In your own words, what’s the greatest aspect of the Regional Australia team and the opportunities it gives regional athletes?
It provides an opportunity for athletes to experience the team environment at a high level competition. The number of athletes that have gone on to wear Australian colours is testament to the value of this.
What will your role at the Oceania Championships entail as a coach
Working with the throwers and supporting them through their events. Generally helping out wherever needed and cheering loudly at every opportunity.
Your certainly a engaged member of the ANQ athletics community, what drives you to be involved in the sport and help it thrive?
I love being part of the ANQ family. Although my children are trying other sports at the moment, being part of this family that spreads over so many kilometres will always be part of my life and theirs.
