Aaron Ford has been the Head Coach of Great Britain’s Senior Women’s team since 2014. He has decided to step down from his role with immediate effect. He will be joined in this decision by his assistant Becky Ashworth.
Chief Executive, Mark Winder, said: “I want to pay tribute to Aaron for his significant contribution during his ten years with Goalball UK. In particular, the commitment, dedication, and respect he has shown the position has been clear to see, and I will personally miss our many conversations about ways we can improve and progress.”
Mark added, “Aaron has also been supported by Becky Ashworth and her contribution has also been great. The support she gave Aaron, and the players cannot be faulted, and I wish her the very best of luck in her future ventures.”
“After steadying the ship in a challenging period, they helped us to several major competitions in their time. Notably qualifying for the World Championships in 2022, finishing a creditable 7th.’ And narrowly missing Paralympic qualification on two occasions.’
High Performance Lead, Gary Fraser added: “Aaron and Becky are synonymous with Goalball in the UK and have successfully led the GB Women’s team for several years, achieving several milestones. They have achieved a lot during this period and leave a legacy behind that will enable us to grow and develop. I know they will continue to be the players’ biggest supporters through the LA 2028 cycle and beyond.”
Aaron said: “Over the last 10 years I have had the opportunity to work with some amazing people and I would like to personally thank them for their dedication and hard work, always going above and beyond for the team. It has been a privilege to work with and experience so many things with such an excellent group of talented athletes and staff. The athletes, past and present have made great progress individually and collectively and possess enormous potential to develop even further. I am grateful to have had the opportunity to play a part in your sporting journeys and wish you all nothing but success in the future. I will continue to be your biggest supporter.’
Becky said: “It has been a fantastic 9 years with the programme and a true honour to coach all the athletes, past and present. After being part of their journeys for a long time, I am now looking forward to being their biggest fan and wish everyone all the success in the future. I leave the programme with many experiences and memories that I will cherish for a long time.”
A recruitment process for coaches to support the Goalball UK Performance programme has already started, please contact Gary Fraser (gary.fraser@goalballuk.com) if you are interested.
